IdiomBody & Senses
English
Englishtread on someone's toes
Meaning: To offend someone, especially by interfering in what they see as their business.
Example: “I asked about the schedule carefully, so as not to tread on the manager's toes.”
Origin: Stepping on a person's foot is a small but unmistakable trespass. The phrase is found in English from the 16th century; Americans usually say "step on someone's toes."
Equivalents in other languages
German: vor den Kopf stoßen Literally: To push before the head- German: auf den Schlips treten Literally: To step on the necktie
More English idioms
- behind the scenes Out of public view, where the real work or decisions happen.
- kick up a fuss To complain loudly and cause a commotion.
- cry at the drop of a hat To burst into tears very easily.
- been there, done that Said of an experience one already knows well, often with a shrug.
- think outside the box To find an unconventional solution.
- not get off the ground To fail to make any progress at all.
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