Sit at somebody’s feet

usgb
verb

To learn from someone by observing them closely.

As a young artist, she sat at the feet of the great masters to perfect her painting skills.
Visual representation of "sit at somebody’s feet" - To learn from someone by observing them closely.

Often appears as...

  • sit at the feet of wisdom
  • sit at the feet of experience

Usage tips

Formal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "sit at somebody’s feet"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Observational Learning

Use this phrase to express learning through close observation, not formal education.

Illustration for Observational Learning
I sat at the feet of the head chef to understand the nuances of French cuisine.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Presence

It's a metaphor; you're not literally sitting down. It shows deep attention to a mentor's ways.

Illustration for Metaphorical Presence
He sat at the feet of the master carpenter, absorbing every detail of the craft.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Respectful Pupil

Highlights a respectful student-teacher relationship.

Illustration for Respectful Pupil
As an apprentice, I sat at the feet of a renowned novelist.
Visual representation of the word "Sit at somebody’s feet"

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