Be the picture of health, guilt, misery, etc.
phrase
To appear to be in a particular state or condition, whether it's good or bad.
After his vacation, he was the picture of health.
Often appears as...
- be the picture of health
- be the picture of happiness
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To represent an extreme example of a certain emotion, state or condition.
She was the picture of despair when she lost the competition.
Often appears as...
- be the picture of disappointment
- be the picture of joy
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To appear to be in a particular state or condition, whether it's good or bad.
After his vacation, he was the picture of health.
Often appears as...
- be the picture of health
- be the picture of happiness
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To represent an extreme example of a certain emotion, state or condition.
She was the picture of despair when she lost the competition.
Often appears as...
- be the picture of disappointment
- be the picture of joy
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Visual Metaphor
The phrase often creates a strong visual impression of someone's condition.
He walked in, the picture of misery, after losing his job.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
It's not about an actual picture, but how vividly someone represents a condition.
On her wedding day, she was the picture of happiness.
Pro Tip 3/3Emotional States
Commonly used to describe obvious emotional states that are 'seen' on the person.
At the verdict, the defendant was the picture of guilt.
Never forget "Be the picture of health, guilt, misery, etc."
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension