ENGLISH
REFERENCE

put one's best foot forward

idiom
Meaning

To show oneself in the best or most positive way possible; to make a favorable impression.


Examples
SIMPLE

I put my best foot forward at the interview.

CONTEXTUAL

On his first day at the new company, he tried to put his best foot forward with everyone he met.

COMPLEX

Determined to put her best foot forward despite the chaos at home, she arrived early, well-prepared, and smiled through the entire presentation.

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.

Last updated July 12, 2026