shoulder to cry on

/ʃˈəʊldə tə kɹˈaɪ ˈɒn/

/ʃˈoʊldɚ tə kɹˈaɪ ˈɑːn/

[phrase]

shoulder to cry on

[PHRASE]

a person who listens to someone's problems and encourages them and gives them emotional support

What is the origin of the idiom "shoulder to cry on" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "shoulder to cry on" is derived from the physical act of offering comfort and solace to someone in distress. The phrase metaphorically represents the supportive role of a shoulder as a symbol of strength and stability. It draws upon the understanding that when individuals are overwhelmed with emotions, they often seek comfort by leaning on or resting their head on someone's shoulder. It is commonly used during times of personal distress, such as relationship issues, loss, grief, or significant life challenges.

Examples

1. MACKENZIE DAVIS: I mean, it was an interesting role to play because of the space that it occupied in somebody else's life and trying to find out how you can be your own shoulder to cry on and support system without becoming like a really malevolent force in that person's life.

2. After Diana had the babies and she was very down and all she needed was for Charles to give her a big cuddle and shoulder to cry on.

3. Rejection was becoming quite common in my life and it was becoming harder and harder to please my dad, cos I felt I still had that pressure, my mum was always the shoulder to cry on, always the person I would go to, my nan played a big part in that as well.

4. You've always got a shoulder to cry on, baby.