Take the wind out of somebody’s sails
phrase
To make someone lose confidence or become less likely to succeed.
He was always boasting about his achievements, but failing the exam really took the wind out of his sails.
Often appears as...
- really take the wind out of his sails
- they took the wind out of my sails
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To make someone lose confidence or become less likely to succeed.
He was always boasting about his achievements, but failing the exam really took the wind out of his sails.
Often appears as...
- really take the wind out of his sails
- they took the wind out of my sails
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Non-literal Meaning
This phrase is a metaphor from sailing, not about actual wind or sails.
After she criticized his project, it really took the wind out of his sails.
Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Impact
The phrase often refers to a sudden emotional letdown or discouragement.
Winning the award took the wind out of my rival's sails.
Pro Tip 3/3Unexpected Events
It's commonly used when something unexpected hinders someone's progress.
Their goal in the final minutes took the wind out of our sails.
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