Self-esteem shapes how we view ourselves and interact with the world. It’s foundational to our mental and emotional health, influencing decisions and relationships. Understanding self-esteem through idioms offers a unique glimpse into how language reflects personal confidence and self-worth.
1. On top of the world
Meaning: Extremely happy
Example: She felt on top of the world after the promotion.
2. Hold one’s head high
Meaning: Be proud
Example: Despite the loss, he held his head high.
3. Full of oneself
Meaning: Overly confident
Example: He’s full of himself since he won.
4. Feel small
Meaning: Feel inferior
Example: She felt small after the critique.
5. Walk tall
Meaning: With confidence
Example: He walked tall into the interview.
6. Have a big head
Meaning: Arrogant
Example: Success gave him a big head.
7. Stand tall
Meaning: Remain confident
Example: She stood tall amid criticisms.
8. Think highly of
Meaning: Respect oneself
Example: He thinks highly of his skills.
9. Look down one’s nose
Meaning: Disdainful pride
Example: She looked down her nose at the offer.
10. Sell oneself short
Meaning: Underestimate oneself
Example: Don’t sell yourself short; you’re capable.
11. Not see eye to eye
Meaning: Disagree
Example: They don’t see eye to eye on self-worth.
12. Wear one’s heart on one’s sleeve
Meaning: Open emotions
Example: He wears his heart on his sleeve, vulnerable yet confident.
13. In good spirits
Meaning: Cheerful
Example: She’s always in good spirits during meetings.
14. Keep one’s chin up
Meaning: Stay positive
Example: Keep your chin up, things will improve.
15. Larger than life
Meaning: Very confident
Example: His larger than life persona impresses everyone.
16. Feel like a million dollars
Meaning: Very confident
Example: She felt like a million dollars in her new role.
17. Take pride in
Meaning: Proud of
Example: He takes pride in his honest work.
18. Under someone’s thumb
Meaning: Controlled
Example: He’s been under her thumb, affecting his self-esteem.
19. Find oneself
Meaning: Discover oneself
Example: She truly found herself in college.
20. Knock someone off their pedestal
Meaning: Degrade someone
Example: The critique knocked him off his pedestal.
