THE SKIDS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "the skids" can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. One common definition refers to a state or condition of deterioration, decline, or failure. It suggests a downward spiral or downward momentum in one's circumstances or fortunes. This expression may be employed to describe someone who is experiencing a series of setbacks, such as financial difficulties, professional downfall, or personal problems. It denotes a situation of worsening conditions or a steady decline from a previously favorable state.
In another context, "the skids" may refer to having a lack of control or stability. This meaning is often associated with difficulties in managing or maintaining balance. It may be used to describe a situation where someone or something is losing its grip or traction, and therefore sliding or slipping, making it difficult to stop or regain stability.
Additionally, "the skids" could also have an informal connotation, referring to a situation or moment of imminent trouble or danger. It may indicate that an individual or a group is about to face a challenging or risky situation, often suggesting the need for caution or vigilance.
Overall, whether it involves a decline, lack of control, or impending trouble, "the skids" generally denotes a negative or undesirable state of affairs.
Common Misspellings for THE SKIDS
- the skid
- the scid
- the skyd
- rhe skids
- fhe skids
- ghe skids
- yhe skids
- 6he skids
- 5he skids
- tge skids
- tbe skids
- tne skids
- tje skids
- tue skids
- tye skids
- thw skids
- ths skids
- thd skids
- thr skids
- th4 skids
Etymology of THE SKIDS
The word "skids" has multiple origins and meanings, depending on the context. However, if you are referring to the phrase "the skids", which is often used metaphorically, the origin is uncertain. "The skids" is idiomatic and often conveys the idea of a decline, downfall, or deterioration. It is believed to have emerged in North America in the late 19th or early 20th century, particularly in Canadian English.
One theory suggests that "the skids" originated from logging practices. Skids were used to create a smooth surface or track for sliding logs downhill during the process of logging. When a log was sent down the skids, it gathered speed, symbolizing a loss of control or acceleration towards a negative outcome. This physical concept of something slipping, sliding, or going downhill could have been extended figuratively to describe various situations.
Idioms with the word THE SKIDS
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on the skids
The idiom "on the skids" typically means experiencing a period of decline or deteriorating conditions, particularly in terms of financial or personal situations. It refers to a situation where someone or something is in a downward spiral, facing difficulties or on the brink of failure.
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grease the skids
To "grease the skids" is an idiomatic expression that means to make a process or situation easier or more efficient by providing assistance or taking action that minimizes obstacles or complications. It refers to the act of lubricating or greasing the skids of a sled or other moving object to reduce friction and facilitate smooth movement. In a figurative sense, it signifies taking measures to smoothen the path, remove hindrances, or facilitate progress in a particular situation or endeavor.
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put the skids on (sth)
The idiom "put the skids on (sth)" means to cause an abrupt stop, halt, or failure to something, usually referring to plans, progress, or success. It implies the act of disrupting or sabotaging an ongoing situation or preventing something from happening smoothly or successfully.
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put the skids under
The idiom "put the skids under" typically means to sabotage or undermine someone's plans or efforts, causing them to fail or be unsuccessful. It can also refer to causing someone's downfall or bringing their ambitions to a halt.
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put the skids under sb/sth
The idiom "put the skids under sb/sth" means to undermine or cause the downfall of someone or something, typically by taking decisive action or creating unfavorable circumstances. It implies causing failure or hindrance, leading to a decline in progress, performance, or reputation.
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be on the skids
The idiom "be on the skids" typically means to be in a declining, deteriorating, or failing state. It suggests that something or someone is on a downward trajectory, experiencing a decrease in success, fortune, or overall functioning.
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hit the skids
The idiom "hit the skids" means to experience a sudden decline or deterioration, often referring to a person's life, career, or a particular situation. It implies that something or someone is rapidly losing value, falling apart, or becoming unsuccessful.
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put the skids under somebody/something
The idiom "put the skids under somebody/something" typically means to cause someone or something to fail or come to a sudden stop. It suggests undermining their progress or success, often resulting in a negative or detrimental outcome.
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put the skids under sm or sth
The idiom "put the skids under someone or something" typically means to undermine or sabotage someone or something's plans or progress, leading to their downfall or failure. It suggests creating a situation that hampers or obstructs their success.
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put the skids under sth
The idiom "put the skids under sth" refers to the act of undermining or sabotaging something, causing its downfall or failure. It implies the action of causing a setback or hindrance to a plan, project, or endeavor.
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