Fill somebody’s shoes/boots

usgb
phrase

Take over someone's role or duties.

After his boss retired, John had to fill his shoes.
Visual representation of "fill somebody’s shoes/boots" - Take over someone's role or duties

Often appears as...

  • fill someone's big shoes
  • fill the shoes of someone

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "fill somebody’s shoes/boots"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Big Responsibility

Suggests stepping into a role with high expectations or reputation to uphold.

Illustration for Big Responsibility
The new CEO must fill her predecessor's shoes and keep the company successful.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Impact

Used when the predecessor was well-loved or admired, indicating a challenging transition.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
She has to fill her father's shoes at the charity, which meant a lot to him.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Metaphorical Shoes

Remind learners this phrase is metaphorical and isn't about literal shoes.

Illustration for Metaphorical Shoes
Even though they're different, he has to fill his shoes as team captain.
Visual representation of the word "Fill somebody’s shoes/boots"

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