Left out in the cold

Meaning

The idiom "left out in the cold" means to be excluded or ignored, often intentionally. It can also mean to feel isolated or disconnected from a group or situation. This phrase has its roots in a literal meaning of being left outside during a cold weather, which symbolizes feeling rejected or abandoned.

Usage

• She was left out in the cold by her colleagues when it came time for the promotion.
• The new employee felt left out in the cold during their first few weeks at work.
• When he brought up his controversial ideas, he was met with silence and left out in the cold.
• The couple's relationship had been left out in the cold since they stopped communicating effectively.
• The company's decision to shut down the department left many employees feeling left out in the cold. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. For instance, it can be used in a more formal setting or in a casual conversation, and can refer to an intentional act or an unintentional one. It can also be used in various situations such as personal relationships, work, or politics.

Roots and History

The earliest known use of this idiom dates back to the 14th century, where it was first recorded in Middle English as "leften outen colder" which means "to leave outside the cold". The phrase then evolved over time into its current meaning. Over time, this idiom has become a popular way to express exclusion or rejection, and is commonly used in contemporary language.

Synonyms in English

• Out in the cold
• Left out
• Shunned
• Ostracized
• Excluded

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish - Sentido de exclusión o rechazo
• French - Retiré ou exclu
• Italian - Escluso o estrano
• German - Ausgeschlossen oder abgewiesen
• Portuguese - Isolado ou excluído

Similar Idioms

• like father like son

• pour cold water on

• like a duck to water