take something in one’s stride: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘take something in one's stride’ mean?

"Take something in one's stride" means to handle or deal with a problem or difficulty calmly and without letting it affect you emotionally or mentally.

Idiom Explorer

Graceful Acceptance

Take something in one's stride is an idiom that is commonly used in the English language. The phrase means to handle or deal with a difficult situation or problem without being overly affected by it. It suggests the ability to remain calm, composed, and unfazed in the face of adversity. This idiom can be related to several other idioms, including "in stride," "get into one's stride," and "take something as it comes."

The origin of "take something in one's stride" can be traced back to the sport of horse racing. In the 19th century, jockeys needed to maintain a steady and balanced posture while racing. If a jockey encountered an obstacle, such as a hurdle or uneven terrain, they had to "take it in their stride" to continue the race smoothly and without losing time or momentum.

Over time, the idiom evolved beyond its literal horse racing origins and became a figurative expression used to describe a person's ability to handle challenges in life. It is often associated with maintaining an optimistic and confident attitude even in the face of adversity. When someone is said to "take something in their stride," it implies that they are not easily discouraged or disheartened by setbacks. They possess a resilience and ability to adapt that allows them to move forward without letting difficulties hinder their progress.

Take a stride and grab something.

The idiom "in stride" is closely related to "take something in one's stride." It means to handle or cope with something effortlessly and without interruption. When someone takes things "in stride," they are able to adapt and continue on their path without being thrown off course. It suggests a sense of ease and nonchalance, as if the person is effortlessly navigating through obstacles.

"Get into one's stride" is another related idiom. It means to reach a state of comfortable and efficient performance. When someone gets into their stride, they find their rhythm and flow, allowing them to perform at their best. It is often used to describe someone who has found their footing or has overcome initial difficulties and is now fully immersed in their task or endeavor.

The idiom "take something as it comes" is also related to "take something in one's stride." It means to accept and deal with a situation or problem as it occurs, without worrying or overthinking. When someone takes something as it comes, they are not overly concerned with the outcome or getting caught up in negative emotions. They approach each challenge with a sense of flexibility and adaptability, understanding that not everything can be controlled or predicted.

It is important to note that "taking something in one's stride" does not mean completely ignoring or disregarding the problem at hand. Rather, it signifies a balanced approach that acknowledges the difficulty while maintaining a positive and determined mindset.

This powerful expression is widely used in both casual and formal contexts. It is often employed in conversations about personal and professional challenges, emphasizing the importance of resilience and a composed attitude in overcoming obstacles. "Taking something in one's stride" serves as a reminder of the strength and determination required to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

Example usage

Examples: 1. Jane has always been able to take criticism in her stride and use it as an opportunity for growth. 2. Despite facing numerous setbacks in his career, Mark always manages to take them in his stride and remain determined. 3. When faced with unexpected change, Sarah has the ability to take it in her stride and adapt quickly. Analysis:

The idiom "take something in one's stride" is used to describe someone's ability to handle or deal with a difficult or challenging situation calmly and without becoming overwhelmed or upset. The phrase suggests that the person is able to easily accept or accommodate the situation without letting it affect them negatively.

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