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Region: General | Usage example: After the crash he felt like he had one foot in the grave.

One foot in the grave

Meaning

Very close to death.

Usage

Used humorously or seriously about near-death experiences.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Imagery of crossing into the graveyard.

Recorded in English since the 16th century.

Related Idioms

Shoot yourself in the foot

Harm yourself through your own actions.

Put your best foot forward

Present yourself in the best possible light.

Get off on the right foot

Start something well.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.