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Processed with VS1Use wind metaphors to describe renewed energy, risk-taking, favorable conditions, or changing circumstances.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptA “second wind” is a return of energy after feeling tired. To “throw caution to the wind” is to take a risk without the usual care; having “the wind at your back” suggests favorable conditions. To “take the wind out of someone’s sails” is to reduce their confidence or momentum. “Know which way the wind blows” means understand the current situation or likely direction of opinion. These images are figurative, not guarantees about success.
Cultural note: “Throw caution to the wind” can sound adventurous, but it may also endorse careless risk. “Take the wind out of someone’s sails” can describe undermining a person’s confidence, so distinguish a useful correction from humiliation. The source discusses “candle in the wind” in relation to people who died young; this lesson omits that phrase rather than turning a eulogy into casual language practice.
Keep exploringA second wind can help you keep going, while throwing caution to the wind may mean ignoring a real risk.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a renewed burst of energy after tiredness.
Meaning
Regain energy after feeling tired or slowing down.
Tone & use
Informal and figurative; it describes a subjective feeling, not a health outcome.
Example
“After a short break and a snack, the volunteers got a second wind and finished setting up the hall.”
Recognize language for acting without the usual caution.
Meaning
Take a risk without the usual careful thought.
Tone & use
Can sound adventurous or reckless depending on context. Consider the real consequences before using it approvingly.
Example
“They threw caution to the wind and booked a nonrefundable trip before checking their work calendars.”
Describe support or momentum that makes progress easier.
Meaning
Have favorable circumstances or support that makes progress easier.
Tone & use
Often positive, but it does not mean success is certain or that there will be no obstacles.
Example
“With a supportive mentor and a clear schedule, the new researcher had the wind at her back.”
Understand phrases about changing momentum or public opinion.
Meaning
Reduce someone’s confidence, excitement, or momentum.
Tone & use
Can describe a setback or a discouraging action. Be tactful when the person needs constructive feedback.
Example
“The last-minute cancellation took the wind out of the volunteers’ sails, so the organizer found a new date.”
Meaning
Understand the current situation, likely direction of events, or prevailing opinion.
Tone & use
Can suggest practical awareness or opportunism; explain what signals someone is responding to.
Example
“Before proposing a schedule change, Mira asked staff and checked which way the wind was blowing.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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