have the world at one's feet

/hav ðə wˈɜːld at wˈɒnz fˈiːt/

/hæv ðə wˈɜːld æt wˈʌnz fˈiːt/

[phrase]

to have the world at one's feet

[PHRASE]

to be highly successful and popular

to [have] the world at {one's} feet definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "have the world at one's world" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "have the world at one's feet" likely dates back to ancient times. The phrase is often associated with Alexander the Great, who was said to have wept because there were no more worlds to conquer. It is believed that the expression "world at his feet" may have been coined in reference to Alexander's conquests and his perceived mastery of the known world. The phrase has been used in various contexts throughout history, and it has become a popular expression to describe a person who is in a position of power or influence and has the potential to achieve great success or accomplish anything they desire.

Examples

1. As the CEO of the successful tech startup, Max has the world at his feet and is changing the industry with his innovative ideas

2. The talented musician had the world at her feet after winning the prestigious award, and she knew she had a bright future ahead of her.

3. Billed as the fittest man on the planet, he had the world at his feet.

4. He was a topper in the class, I was the back-bencher and he was brilliant, so he had the world at his feet, he could do what he wanted, but after we passed out, he decided to work for other people.

Nearby words

have the wind at back