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drag one's feet

idiom
Meaning

To procrastinate, put off; to dawdle, avoid, or make progress slowly and reluctantly.


Origin

disputed origin

From the idea of walking while dragging one's feet along the ground, either from lack of enthusiasm or to intentionally slow down movement. Compare dig in one's heels (“firmly oppose”).

Examples
SIMPLE

She drags her feet when it's time to clean.

CONTEXTUAL

The company is dragging its feet on hiring more staff, even though everyone is overworked.

COMPLEX

Despite the looming deadline, the committee dragged its feet for weeks, reluctant to make the unpopular decision that would anger half its members.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    abound in one's own sense

    To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.

  2. 02

    ace up one's sleeve

    A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.

  3. 03

    act one's age

    To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.

  4. 04

    act one's age, not one's shoe size

    Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).

  5. 05

    afraid of one's own shadow

    Exceptionally timid.

  6. 06

    air one's dirty laundry in public

    To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.

  7. 07

    air one's dirty linen in public

    Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.

  8. 08

    albatross around one's neck

    A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.

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