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UKleave sb/sth standing
/lˈiːv ˌɛsbˈiː slˈaʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ stˈandɪŋ/
/lˈiːv ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ stˈændɪŋ/to leave sb/sth standing
[PHRASE]
![to [leave] {sb/sth} standing definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/40053/original/ "to [leave] {sb/sth} standing definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "leave somebody or something standing" and when to use it?
The origin of this phrase is uncertain, but it is believed to have its roots in early sporting events such as foot races and horse races, where the winner would often cross the finish line well ahead of the other competitors, leaving them "standing" in their tracks.
Examples
1. The dancer's performance was so mesmerizing that she left her rivals standing and won the competition with ease.
2. The new product design was so innovative that it left the competition standing, quickly dominating the market and securing a commanding lead.
3. However, Butch’s horse got spooked and took off leaving him standing in the middle of the street with a bag of gold in his hand.
4. Slipping by and leaving you standing still.
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