[Idiom] KNOCK THE WIND OUT OF YOUR SAILS. - Why Feeling Suddenly Discouraged Is Not Uncommon
Knock the wind out of your sails.
to discourage or shock someone suddenly.
Picture yourself sailing smoothly, the breeze is perfect, and suddenly—wham—a gust hits unexpectedly and your sails collapse. That's the essence of 'Knock the wind out of your sails.' This phrase vividly describes the sudden loss of momentum and spirit one might feel after a setback or disappointing news. It's as if you’re literally and figuratively deflated. Historically rooted in nautical terminology, where such an event could drastically affect a ship's voyage, it translates to those moments in life where something or someone stuns you so much that it temporarily takes away your drive.
Example Sentences
His criticism really knocked the wind out of my sails.
His harsh criticism greatly discouraged me.
Losing the client knocked the wind out of our sails.
Losing the client was a significant setback for us.
The harsh feedback knocked the wind out of her sails.
The negative feedback deeply affected her motivation.