- Meaning
- This idiom describes diving into an activity or commitment with full enthusiasm and no hesitation, as if leaping into water with both feet. It conveys bold, wholehearted engagement, often used in personal, professional, or creative contexts to praise or encourage all-in effort. The phrase carries a tone of excitement, courage, or impulsiveness, reflecting cultural values of initiative and the human tendency to embrace opportunities. Its physical imagery evokes a fearless plunge, resonating in scenarios like new ventures or passions. The idiom celebrates commitment, making it a dynamic metaphor for unreserved action.
- Origin
- The phrase likely originated in early 20th-century America, tied to swimming or diving metaphors for bold action, possibly influenced by rural expressions for jumping into streams. Its earliest recorded use appears in *The Saturday Evening Post* (1920s), describing a businessman’s eager investment. The idiom gained traction in the mid-20th century, amplified by motivational literature and media, notably in *Forbes* (1950s) for entrepreneurs. Its adoption across English-speaking cultures, especially in the U.S. and Canada, stems from its vivid imagery and applicability to bold decisions.
- Variants
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- Jump in with both feet
- Dive in with both feet
- Go in with both feet
- Examples
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- She jumped in with both feet, starting her own bakery with passion.
- Dive in with both feet, he urged, embracing the new project fully.
- Go in with both feet, and you’ll make the most of this opportunity.
- Jumping in with both feet, they launched the campaign with gusto.
- He jumped in with both feet, moving abroad for the job without hesitation.
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