in one's shoes

/ɪn wˈɒnz ʃˈuːz/

/ɪn wˈʌnz ʃˈuːz/

[phrase]

in one's shoes

[PHRASE]

in a similar or identical situation to someone else, particularly a difficult or unpleasant one

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.

Examples

1. You want someone that’s been in your shoes before.

2. After experiencing the difficulties of parenting, she realized that she had been too quick to judge other parents - do not judge a man until you have walked in his shoes.

3. That poor kid is shaking in his shoes up there on stage.

4. Glaring round at the solitary embryo sheepskin, who quaked in his shoes.