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in one's shoes
01
in a similar or identical situation to someone else, particularly a difficult or unpleasant one
Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "in one's shoes" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "in one's shoes" can be traced to the idea of stepping into someone else's footwear, symbolizing the act of taking on their role or experiencing their situation. While the precise historical origin is not documented, the concept of empathy and understanding by imagining oneself in another person's circumstances has been a fundamental aspect of human communication and social interaction for centuries. It is commonly employed in conversations involving interpersonal relationships, conflict resolution, and decision-making.
Example
If I were in your shoes, I would hang in there and not let setbacks discourage me.
Before criticizing her decisions, try to put yourself in her shoes and consider the challenges she faces.
The thought of confronting my boss about the mistake makes me tremble in my shoes.
Having been in his shoes during a similar crisis, she offered valuable advice on how to cope with the situation.
The thunderstorm last night shook me in my shoes with its loud thunder and lightning.