What is the origin of the idiom "in the shadow of someone" and when to use it?

The idiom "in the shadow of somebody" likely originates from the visual image of one person casting a shadow over another due to their physical position relative to a light source. This literal concept of being in someone's shadow has been extended metaphorically to describe situations where one person's prominence or success makes others seem less significant or visible.

What is the origin of the idiom "in the shadow of something" and when to use it?

The idiom "in the shadow of something" has its origins in the literal concept of shadows. A shadow is created when an object blocks the path of light, resulting in an area of darkness behind it. In a figurative sense, the term "shadow" has been used for centuries to represent something that follows or is cast by something else, often implying a lesser or secondary position. This phrase typically refers to a period preceding or leading up to a significant event or moment in time. It suggests that people or things are influenced by the impending occurrence, often indicating a sense of anticipation, pressure, or preparation.