have two left feet

/hav tˈuː lˈɛft fˈiːt/

/hæv tˈuː lˈɛft fˈiːt/

[phrase]

to have two left feet

[PHRASE]

to move clumsily and awkwardly, particularly when one dances

to [have] two left feet definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "have two left feet" and when to use it?

The idiom "have two left feet" originates from the world of dance, specifically referring to a person's lack of coordination or gracefulness while moving. It can be applied to various situations, such as describing someone's inability to dance well, play sports proficiently, or navigate through complex physical tasks.

Examples

1. She told reporters that her husband has two left feet.

2. When we danced together, I discovered he had two left feet.

3. Bad dancers have two left feet.

4. To have two left feet is to not be graceful.

Nearby words

have to

have the world at feet

have the wind at back