- A loss of nerve or confidence, causing hesitation or a desire to withdraw from a planned action, especially a significant commitment like marriage, a performance, or a major decision.
Explanation
Origin
- Several theories exist. One suggests it relates to soldiers lacking warm boots being unable or unwilling to fight.
- Another theory links it to gambling, where someone without money ('cold feet') couldn't raise the bet and had to withdraw.
- A commonly cited origin is from an 1862 German novel by Fritz Reuter, where a card player excuses himself claiming cold feet.
- Regardless of the exact origin, it implies a paralysis or unwillingness to proceed due to fear or doubt settling in, like the physical sensation of cold causing immobility.
- Strongly associated with weddings, referring to a bride or groom having last-minute doubts.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Wimp out. (Derogatory, implies cowardice)
- Bail. / Bail out. (To withdraw or abandon something)
- Get spooked. (To become frightened and hesitant)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Pussy out. (Vulgar and offensive, implies cowardice)
Milder/More Formal:
- Became apprehensive.
- Experienced reluctance.
- Felt hesitant.
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal. Widely understood.
- Very common when discussing major life decisions, especially marriage.
- Generally acceptable in most conversations, though slang alternatives like chicken out are more informal and potentially insulting.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might initially think it refers to the literal physical sensation of having cold feet. Clarify it's about nervousness and hesitation regarding a commitment.
- While often associated with weddings, it can apply to any situation involving a significant planned action or decision.
Examples
- He was going to ask for a raise, but he got cold feet at the last minute.
- She almost backed out of the skydive; she really had cold feet.
- It's normal to get cold feet before your wedding day.
Dialogue
Person A: I was all set to invest in that startup, but now I'm getting cold feet.
Person B: Really? What changed your mind? It seemed like a solid plan.
Person A: I don't know, it just feels like a huge risk all of a sudden. Maybe I should wait.
Person B: Well, talk me through your concerns. Let's weigh the pros and cons again.
Social Media Examples
- Blog Post Title: Getting Cold Feet Before Quitting Your Job? Read This.
- Tweet: Was going to try bungee jumping today but got major cold feet standing on the edge! Maybe next time. 😅 #adventure #fail
- Facebook Status: My fiancé admitted he had cold feet for a second last week, but we talked it through and we're stronger than ever! ❤️ #weddingplanning #honesty
Response Patterns
- Asking for details (Really? Why? What happened?).
- Offering reassurance or encouragement (Don't worry, You can do it, Think about why you wanted this).
- Sharing similar experiences (I felt that way too before...).
- If about someone else, expressing surprise or concern (Oh no! Did they go through with it?).
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone mentions getting cold feet:
- People usually ask if the person overcame the feeling and proceeded with the action (So, did you still do it?).
- They might inquire about the specific doubts or fears causing the hesitation.
- Friends might offer strong encouragement or a reality check.
Conversation Starter
- No. Describes a reaction to a planned event or decision.
Intonation
- Emphasis usually on cold and feet. COLD FEET.
- Often said with a tone of understanding, slight concern, or sometimes disappointment.
Generation Differences
- Common and understood across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Widely used in all major English-speaking regions.