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to shake in one's boots
01
to shake involuntarily as a response to extreme fear
![to [shake|quake|tremble] in {one's} (boots|shoes) definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/42054/original/?type=jpeg "to [shake|quake|tremble] in {one's} (boots|shoes) definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "tremble in one's boots" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "tremble in one's boots" can be traced back to the idea of physical trembling or shaking as a response to fear or anxiety. The phrase likely emerged as a colorful and exaggerated way to describe someone's intense emotional reaction to a frightening or intimidating situation. It is often employed in informal or colloquial settings, including everyday conversations, storytelling, or informal writing.
Example
The thought of confronting my boss about the mistake makes me tremble in my shoes.
When I heard the loud crash, I trembled in my boots with fear.
The idea of giving a presentation in front of a large audience makes me quake in my shoes.
The eerie noises in the dark forest have me trembling in my boots.
I know that meeting my significant other's parents for the first time will make me quake in my boots.
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