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rooted to the spot
01
unable to move or act due to being extremely shocked, surprised, or frightened
Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "rooted to the spot" and when to use it?
The idiom "rooted to the spot" is a figurative expression that draws its origin from the literal concept of plants and trees being firmly anchored in the soil by their roots. This expression is commonly used in contexts where individuals are stunned, astonished, or caught off guard by something unexpected or alarming.
Example
The massive boulder was immobile, firmly rooted to the ground.
Tomorrow, they will be rooted in the ground in awe as they witness the breathtaking natural phenomenon.
He was rooted to the ground when he saw the car accident unfold before his eyes.
As the thunderstorm approached, my dog was rooted to the spot, trembling with fear.
We were rooted to the spot, frozen with fear, as the loud explosion echoed through the air.
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