get cold feet
Say it: get cold FEET /ˌɡɛt ˌkəʊld ˈfiːt/ · idiom
What “get cold feet” means
Suddenly feel nervous and want to back out.
More precisely: To suddenly become nervous and want to back out of something planned.
Example: “The buyer got cold feet the day before we were due to sign.”
When to use it
In informal conversation, when nerves make someone hesitate or withdraw just before a planned commitment or activity.
Similar words
lose your nerve, have second thoughts, back out
Quick check
You've rehearsed for weeks, but just before stepping on stage you become frightened and want to cancel. Which phrase fits?
have second thoughts or get cold feet?
Show the answer
get cold feet
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