get back on your feet
Meaning
Recover after a setback—especially becoming financially stable or healthy again.
Origin
From the literal idea of standing up again after being knocked down; by the early 20th century it was widely used figuratively for recovering health or financial stability.
Notes
Common for recovering health or finances after trouble. Often implies regaining independence/stability, not just feeling better.
Examples
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After the surgery, it took her a few weeks to get back on her feet.
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The company is trying to get back on its feet after last year’s losses.
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He moved in with his sister temporarily so he could get back on his feet.
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A small loan helped them get back on their feet and reopen the shop.
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Take it easy for a few days, and you’ll be back on your feet soon.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as a verb phrase: get back on your feet. Tense changes: got back on my feet; will get back on his feet. Often with ‘help (someone) get back on their feet.’ Article is fixed (on your feet).
Synonyms
- recover
- bounce back
- get back on track
- get back to normal
- get back to doing well
Antonyms
- fall apart
- go under
- stay down