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Region: General | Usage example: He put his best foot forward during the job interview.

Put your best foot forward

Meaning

Present yourself in the best possible light.

Usage

Used when encouraging hopeful first impressions.

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.

Old walking etiquette advising a graceful first step.

Used since the 16th century in advice literature.

Related Idioms

Best foot forward

Present oneself in the best possible light.

Put your foot in your mouth

Say something embarrassing.

Put your money where your mouth is

Support words with action or investment.

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.