Leg up

Meaning

The idiom "leg up" means to give someone a helping hand or support, usually by providing them with resources, opportunities, or encouragement that they need to succeed. It can also mean to make progress or improve one's position in a particular situation.

Usage

• When Sarah started her new job, her colleagues gave her a "leg up" and introduced her to important people in the company.
• John didn't have any money to pay for his car repairs, but he managed to get a "leg up" from his friend who lent him some funds.
• Sarah was struggling with her writing skills, but her English teacher gave her a "leg up" by providing her with feedback and tips on how to improve.
• The company's marketing team gave the new product a "leg up" by launching a promotional campaign that generated a lot of buzz and increased sales.
• When Jane started her business, she faced many challenges, but she persevered and eventually got a "leg up" when she landed a big contract with a major client.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom "leg up" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the early 20th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the practice of using a ladder or other tool to help someone climb up a wall or climb onto a roof. Another theory suggests that it comes from the idea of giving someone a boost or helping them "get their footing" in a new situation. Over time, the idiom has evolved to mean something more general and metaphorical, referring to any kind of support or encouragement that helps someone succeed.

Synonyms in English

• help or assist
• support or sponsor
• boost or promote
• encourage or motivate
• give a hand or lend a hand

Synonyms in other languages

• помощь (Russian) - meaning assistance or support
• succor (French) - meaning help or relief
• assistenza (Italian) - meaning assistance or support
• ayuda (Spanish) - meaning help or aid
• помога (Greek) - meaning help or aid

Similar Idioms

• ace up one’s sleeve

• lily-livered

• bare bones