On one's heels definitions
| Word backwards | no s'eno sleeh |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | It is a prepositional phrase. |
| Syllabic division | on one's heels on / one's / heels |
| Plural | The plural of "on one's heels" would be "on their heels" or "on someone's heels." |
| Total letters | 11 |
| Vogais (2) | o,e |
| Consonants (4) | n,s,h,l |
When someone is said to be "on one's heels," it means that they are following closely behind or pursuing someone or something. This phrase is often used to describe a situation in which someone is right behind another person, either physically or metaphorically, ready to take action or respond.
Origins of the Phrase
The phrase "on one's heels" comes from the idea that when someone is following closely behind another person, their heels are right behind the other person's feet. This creates a sense of immediacy and proximity, indicating that the person following is ready to act or react at a moment's notice.
Usage in Everyday Language
This phrase is commonly used in everyday language to describe situations where someone is closely following or pursuing another individual or group. It can be used both in a literal sense, such as when someone is physically following someone else, or in a figurative sense, such as when someone is closely monitoring or observing another person's actions.
Implications of Being on Someone's Heels
Being on someone's heels can indicate a sense of pressure or urgency, as the person being followed may feel a sense of being watched or monitored. It can also imply competition or a desire to outperform or outmaneuver the person being followed. In some cases, being on someone's heels can be seen as a sign of respect or admiration, as it shows a keen interest in that person's actions or decisions.
Overall, the phrase "on one's heels" conveys a sense of proximity, readiness, and intensity, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense. It suggests a close connection between the person being followed and the person doing the following, highlighting the dynamic relationship between them.
On one's heels Examples
- She could feel his breath on her heels as he chased her through the forest.
- The deadline was right on his heels, pushing him to work faster.
- The detective was hot on the heels of the suspect, determined to catch him.
- The enemy troops were right on our heels, forcing us to retreat quickly.
- The cat crept up silently, stalking its prey on tiny velvet paws.
- She could feel the ghostly presence following her, always on her heels.
- The paparazzi were on the celebrity's heels, trying to get the latest scoop.
- The sleuth followed the clues closely, always on the heels of the criminal.
- The reporter ran after the politician, trying to get a statement with a microphone in hand.
- The debt collector was on his heels, demanding payment for overdue bills.