bide one’s time: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘bide one's time’ mean?
The idiom "bide one's time" means to wait patiently for the right moment or opportunity.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take one's time" means to proceed at a relaxed and unhurried pace without feeling rushed or pressured.
The idiom "have time on one's side" means to have the advantage of time and the ability to wait or be patient in a situation. It implies that by being patient, one has a higher chance of achieving a desired outcome or seeing positive results.
The idiom "cool one's heels" means to wait or be kept waiting, usually in a state of impatience or frustration.
The idiom "button one's lip" means to stop talking or keep quiet. It is often used as an instruction to someone who is talking too much or saying something that should not be said.
The idiom "bite one's tongue" means to stop oneself from saying something, usually to avoid causing offense or trouble.
The idiom "bet one's boots" means to be absolutely certain about something, willing to wager one's own boots as a bet. It emphasizes a strong belief or confidence in the outcome.
The idiom "bend to one's will" means to make someone do what you want or to surrender to your control or influence.
The idiom "behind its time" means that something is outdated or not keeping up with current trends or advancements.
The idiomatic phrase "before someone's time" means that something happened or existed before a particular person was born or became aware of it.
The idiom "beat the clock" means to complete a task or achieve a goal before a specific deadline or time limit expires.
Decoding Patience
The idiom "bide one's time" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It originated in the 16th century and has gained widespread usage in various contexts. The idiom refers to patiently waiting for the right moment or opportunity to take action. It suggests restraint, self-control, and the understanding that timing is crucial in achieving one's goals.
The word "bide" means to wait or endure and is derived from the Old English word "bīdan." The addition of "one's time" emphasizes personal agency in choosing the moment to act. The idiom is often used to convey the notion of reserving judgment, staying calm, or delaying action until conditions are favorable.
In terms of usage, the idiom can be applied to personal situations where one waits for the right moment to confront a difficult situation or make a major life decision. It can also be used in professional settings, indicating the need for patience and strategic thinking to achieve success.
The idiom "bide one's time" often suggests the presence of potential or hidden power. Those who "bide their time" are seen as possessing shrewdness and foresight, maximizing their chances of success. It implies a calculated approach to decision-making and highlights the importance of timing and patience.
Another related idiom is "have time on one's side." This phrase means to have the advantage of being able to wait patiently for favorable conditions or opportunities. It aligns with the idea of biding one's time, emphasizing the strategic advantage gained through patience.
Similarly, the idiom "cool one's heels" can also be related to biding one's time. It means to wait patiently, often suggesting a sense of frustration or eagerness to take action. By cooling one's heels, individuals demonstrate the ability to remain composed and delay action until the circumstances are more favorable.
Additionally, the phrase "take one's time" is another related idiom. It means to proceed at a comfortable pace, without rushing. By taking one's time, individuals acknowledge the importance of not being hasty and making well-thought-out decisions. This aligns with the idea of biding one's time, as both idioms emphasize the need for patience in achieving desired outcomes.
Overall, the idiom "bide one's time" conveys a message of patience, self-control, and strategic thinking. It suggests that by delaying action and carefully selecting the opportune moment, individuals can enhance their chances of achieving their desired outcomes. While it acknowledges the need for timing and restraint, it also implies a sense of anticipation and readiness.
The idiom invites contemplation on the delicate balance between action and inaction, and the possibilities that may unfold when one chooses to patiently wait for the right moment to act. By understanding the related idioms "have time on one's side," "cool one's heels," and "take one's time," individuals can further appreciate the power of biding one's time and the advantages that come with it.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *bide one's time* can be used in a sentence:
1. After losing his job, John decided to bide his time and wait for the right opportunity before starting a new job.
2. Sarah knew she was the most qualified candidate for the promotion, so she decided to bide her time and wait for the right moment to assert herself.
3. The spy was instructed to bide his time and gather information slowly, without raising suspicion.
More "Patience" idioms
