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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about first impressions, strong starts, and a project or relationship that begins poorly.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptTo “start off on the right foot” or “get off on the right foot” is to begin an activity, project, job, or relationship well. To start on the wrong foot is to begin badly. “Put your best foot forward” means show your best self or make a strong effort. The source attributes the right-foot good-luck connection to a reported superstition, rather than establishing it as a certain origin.
Cultural note: These phrases are common and usually positive. “Put your best foot forward” can mean making a good first impression, but it can also mean making a sincere effort—not pretending to be someone else. Treat the superstition-based origin as an explanation some experts suggest, not a verified fact.
Keep exploringA small image about feet helps speakers describe how a new job, meeting, project, or relationship begins.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a project or relationship that starts well.
Meaning
Begin an activity, relationship, or project in a positive or successful way.
Tone & use
Often used when meeting someone new or beginning a job, class, or project.
Example
“We started off on the right foot by agreeing on the project goals.”
Meaning
Begin well and make an encouraging first impression.
Tone & use
Often followed by “with” and the person or group: “get off on the right foot with the team.”
Example
“She got off on the right foot with her new coworkers by asking thoughtful questions.”
Talk about the effort to make a good first impression.
Meaning
Make a strong effort or present your best self.
Tone & use
Can mean behaving well to impress others, or simply doing your best.
Example
“He put his best foot forward during the interview and explained his experience clearly.”
Name a start that creates challenges later.
Meaning
Begin in a bad or unsuccessful way.
Tone & use
Can refer to a misunderstanding, poor first impression, or project that starts badly.
Example
“The meeting started off on the wrong foot when the presentation would not load.”
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