best foot forward
Definition
The meaning: Best foot forward is an idiomatic expression meaning to make the best possible impression or effort, especially when starting something new or meeting someone for the first time.
La signification: L'expression anglaise best foot forward, qui signifie "faire de son mieux" ou "se présenter sous son meilleur jour", peut se traduire en français par "mettre son meilleur pied en avant". Elle est utilisée lorsqu'une personne fait un effort particulier pour bien commencer ou impressionner.
Note: This phrase is widely used in both British and American English, often in contexts like job interviews or first impressions.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» Se surpasser
» Donner le meilleur de soi
» Faire bonne impression
» Montrer son meilleur côté
» Mettre son meilleur pied en avant
A: Pour cet entretien, il faut vraiment mettre son meilleur pied en avant.
B: Oui, c’est l’occasion de briller !
English synonyms
» Make a good impression
» Put your best effort
» Shine
» Step up
» Give it your all
A: For this interview, you need to put your best foot forward.
B: Absolutely, it’s my chance to stand out!
Dialogue
Sophie: "How’s your first day at the new job going?"
Marc: "I’m trying to make a good start."
Sophie: "So you’re putting your best foot forward?"
Marc: "Yeah, I want them to see what I can do."
Etymology
Origin: The phrase best foot forward has origins dating back to the 16th century in English, with early uses linked to the idea of stepping out confidently or presenting oneself well. It may derive from the literal act of leading with a strong step, symbolizing effort and intent. A related French expression, "mettre son meilleur pied en avant", mirrors this concept of showcasing one’s best self.
Audience
The phrase "best foot forward" is widely used in both British and American English to describe making a strong, positive effort, especially at the start of something new.
When to use: Use this expression to highlight someone’s attempt to impress or perform well, e.g., "He put his best foot forward during the presentation." It’s suitable for casual or formal contexts, like job interviews, first meetings, or any situation where making a good impression matters.
Dictionary Meaning
The Free Dictionary says that put one's best foot forward means "to try to make the best possible impression." Here's a provided example of use: 'He always has his best foot forward when speaking to his constituents.'
News Snippet
"Failure or inadequacy to withstand the effects of this pandemic by countries in both the Global North and the Global South underscores the reality of global and national inequality as well as the need to re-evaluate current global social, economic and health structures which have been rendered very weak by the unrelenting waves of the pandemic. In this spirit of President Mandela, partnerships within a multilateral framework are our best foot forward."
Read the full article at The Daily Maverick
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Common Idioms & Expressions Related to "Best Foot Forward"
Put Your Best Foot Forward
To make the best possible impression or do something as well as you can.
Example: "She really put her best foot forward during the job interview."
Make a Good Impression
To present oneself in a way that pleases or impresses others.
Example: "He tried to make a good impression on his first day at work."
Start Off on the Right Foot
To begin something in a positive and successful way.
Example: "Let’s start off on the right foot with the new team project."
Give It Your All
To put maximum effort into something.
Example: "She gave it her all during the final performance."
Dress to Impress
To wear clothes that will impress others, often for a special occasion.
Example: "He dressed to impress for the awards ceremony."
Go the Extra Mile
To make more effort than is expected.
Example: "They really went the extra mile to make guests feel welcome."
Put on a Good Show
To act or perform in a way that impresses others, especially under pressure.
Example: "Even though she was nervous, she put on a good show."
Make a Splash
To attract a lot of attention in a positive way.
Example: "He made a splash at the conference with his bold ideas."
Hit the Ground Running
To start something with great energy and enthusiasm.
Example: "She hit the ground running in her new role."
Rise to the Occasion
To perform better than usual in response to a challenge.
Example: "He really rose to the occasion during the final round."
Put Your Heart Into It
To do something with great enthusiasm and dedication.
Example: "She put her heart into the project, and it showed."
Step Up to the Plate
To take responsibility for something, especially when it is challenging.
Example: "When the team needed a leader, he stepped up to the plate."
Leave No Stone Unturned
To make every possible effort to achieve something.
Example: "They left no stone unturned in their quest for success."
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