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UKon one's last legs
/ˌɒn wˈɒnz lˈast lˈɛɡz/
/ˌɑːn wˈʌnz lˈæst lˈɛɡz/on one's last legs
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "on one's last legs" and when to use it?
The idiom "on one's last legs" is believed to have originated in the 17th century and was used to describe animals that were near death and could barely stand up. The phrase now means to be in a very weak or poor state, often due to age or illness. The phrase is often used to describe people or things that are nearing the end of their useful life.
Examples
1. Someone being on their last legs, they can't pay their bills, and then they say, I'm going to start a business.
2. She is on her last legs with exhaustion after working long hours all week.
3. The old dog was on his last legs and had to be put down due to his failing health.
4. They have been on their last legs financially for months and are struggling to make ends meet.
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