I am waiting for the other shoe to drop before I decide.
wait for the other shoe to drop
idiomTo defer action or decision until another matter is finished or resolved.
Origin
disputed originA common experience of tenement living in apartment-style housing in New York City and other large cities during the manufacturing boom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Apartments were built with very similar designs, with the bedrooms located directly above and underneath one another. Thus, it was normal to hear a neighbor removing their shoes in the apartment above. As one shoe made a sound hitting the floor, the expectation for the other shoe to make a similar disturbance was created.
The company announced small budget cuts, but we are all waiting for the other shoe to drop regarding layoffs.
Although the initial negotiations concluded peacefully, the diplomats remained anxious, waiting for the other shoe to drop as the final treaty terms were revealed.
- 01
a short drop and a sudden stop
A fall to one's death by hanging.
- 02
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”).
- 03
as ever trod shoe-leather
As ever existed or lived.
- 04
can't wait
To eagerly anticipate; to find it hard to wait for a forthcoming pleasurable event.
- 05
don't drop the soap
Used as a mockery to someone who is about to be or should be confined in prison.
- 06
drop a bollock
To make a mistake.
- 07
drop a bomb
Alternative form of drop a bombshell.
- 08
drop a bombshell
To announce surprising or alarming information suddenly and without warning.