get cold feet
idiomC
To suddenly become too nervous to do something planned
- 1She was ready to skydive, but she got cold feet at the last minute.
- 2He got cold feet before the wedding and called it off.
Imagine you are about to do something you planned, but then you start feeling scared and unsure. You might feel like you can't go through with it anymore. This feeling of fear and doubt that stops you from doing something is what we call "getting cold feet."
Remember, "getting cold feet" is a common expression used in informal situations. It's not literal - your feet won't actually feel cold! Just think of it as a way to describe feeling nervous or hesitant.
waiting for the bus
The Nervous Performer
Jeffrey
I heard you were going to perform at the talent show tonight.
Margaret
I was, but I got cold feet at the last minute.
Jeffrey
Oh no, I was really looking forward to seeing you on stage.
Margaret
I know, but the thought of all those eyes on me was just too much.
at the movie theater
The Hesitant Moviegoer
William
I can't believe we're finally going to see this movie!
Donna
I know, but I'm starting to get cold feet about it.
William
Really? You've been talking about it for weeks!
Donna
I know, but now I'm just too nervous to go in.
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Similar to "get cold feet":
- 1hesitate
- 2back out