to-find-ones-feet
/tə faɪnd wʌnz fiːt/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
To become confident and comfortable in a new situation. It is often used when someone starts a new job, school, or place.
- It took me a month to find my feet at work.
- She is still finding her feet in the new city.
- After a few classes, he found his feet quickly.
Adinary Nuance
"To find your feet" is more specific than "adapt" or "adjust". It often suggests the early stage of settling in, when you are still learning how things work. It is warmer and more personal than the more general verb "adapt". Writers use it when someone is new and gradually becoming confident.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- ổn định
- Spanish
- aclimatarse
- Chinese
- 站稳脚跟
- Japanese
- 慣れる
- Korean
- 자리를 잡다
Etymology
This idiom uses the image of learning to stand and walk steadily. It became common in English in the 19th century.
Common phrases
find your feet at workfind your feet in a new placehelp someone find their feettake time to find your feet
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is "find your feet" formal or informal?
- It is neutral and common in both speech and writing.
- What is the difference between "find your feet" and "adapt"?
- "Find your feet" is about becoming comfortable in a new situation. "Adapt" is broader and more formal.
- Can I use this idiom for a new job?
- Yes. It is very common for a new job, school, or city.
- Does "find your feet" mean physical feet?
- No. It is an idiom. It means becoming confident and settled.