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UKafraid / scared / frightened of one's own shadow
/ɐfɹˈeɪd skˈeəd fɹˈaɪtənd ɒv wˈɒnz ˈəʊn ʃˈadəʊ/
/ɐfɹˈeɪd skˈɛɹd fɹˈaɪʔn̩d ʌv wˈʌnz ˈoʊn ʃˈædoʊ/afraid / scared / frightened of one's own shadow
[PHRASE]1
used to refer to someone who becomes extremely afraid of or nervous about even the smallest things
What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?
The phrase "afraid of one's own shadow" is a figurative expression that communicates extreme timidity or excessive fearfulness. The origin of the phrase is unclear, but it likely emerged from the idea that someone is so easily frightened that they would even be afraid of their own shadow, which is an inanimate and harmless object. It suggests that the person is overly sensitive to potential threats or dangers, even when they are unlikely or non-existent.
Examples
1. The new employee is so afraid of her own shadow that she's hesitant to voice her opinions in meetings.
2. In the past, she was scared of her own shadow, but over time, she gained confidence and became more assertive.
3. But they're afraid of their own shadow, they have these little goblins working for them that run away at the first sign of terror.
4. No, Bucephalus was scared of his own shadow.
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