What does the idiom "Get a second wind" mean?
Although the meanings of the words in them do not make any sense when examined one by one, the word groups that are shaped according to the cultural roots of the language and that make sense as a whole are called idioms. Get a second wind meaning, in what situations is it used?
Meaning of "Get a second wind"
Meaning
The idiom ‘get a second wind’ is used to describe the feeling of renewed energy that one experiences after feeling tired or exhausted. At the point in which a person feels as if they cannot proceed any further due to fatigue, they may be said to ‘get a second wind’ when they suddenly feel as if they are able to continue their activity. It is also sometimes used in a figurative sense to signify a burst of energy that helps a person persevere or continue with a difficult task.
Etymology
The phrase ‘get a second wind’ has its roots in the early 19th century, where it was used to describe a situation in which a runner or horse experiences a resurgence of energy at the end of a race, allowing them to finish strong. It was a literal phrase, as runners and horses often had to take a break during a race and then be able to pick up again and finish. The phrase is assumed to have been adapted and changed over time to be used in a more figurative sense today.
Usage
The phrase ‘get a second wind’ is typically used to describe a subset of situations such as when a person is feeling physically tired and needs to ‘recharge’, or when a person is feeling mentally exhausted and needs to find their focus again. It is also used when someone has been doing a task for a long time and needs a burst of energy to finish. Finally, it is sometimes used to describe someone’s ability to keep going when faced with a difficult situation or challenge.
Example Sentences
- After hours of studying, I was so exhausted that I thought I was done for the night, but then I suddenly got a second wind and managed to finish my work.
- After months of searching for a job, I was ready to give up, but then I got a second wind and finally managed to find some leads.
- I was running the marathon and thought I wouldn't be able to finish, but then I got a second wind and managed to complete it.
From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms
English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.
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