PhrasesHub

Sitting pretty

    Definitions

      • in a favorable or advantageous position
        Describing someone or something as being in a comfortable, secure, or advantageous situation

      • appearing attractive or well-presented
        Describing someone or something as looking attractive, well-dressed, or put together

    Examples of Sitting pretty

    • Sarah's new business venture has been a huge success, and she's now sitting pretty with a substantial profit margin.

      Sarah's business is doing exceptionally well and she's in a comfortable financial position as a result. This phrase 'sitting pretty' suggests that Sarah is in a favourable and advantageous position, much like a person might appear content and at ease when seated comfortably.

    • The student aced the exam with flying colours and is now sitting pretty at the top of the class.

      The student has performed exceptionally well in the exam, outshining their peers, and as a result, they're now leading the class. This phrase 'sitting pretty' suggests that the student is in a comfortable and superior position in relation to their classmates.

    • The athlete's injury might have sidelined them for now, but their impressive track record ensures that they'll be sitting pretty when they make their comeback.

      Despite temporarily experiencing setbacks, the athlete's previous successes mean that they're still in a favourable position in terms of reputation and potential future success. This phrase 'sitting pretty' highlights the potential that the athlete possesses and the fact that they haven't lost their standing in the sport due to their injury.

    • The politician's new policy proposals have been obstinately rejected by the public, leaving them struggling to regain their footing. By contrast, their competitor's popular policies have them sitting pretty in the polls.

      The politician's proposals have failed to resonate with the public, and as a result, they've lost some support. By contrast, their rival's more successful policies have left them in a superior position, boasting a higher level of public support. This phrase 'sitting pretty' implies that the rival politician is enjoying a comfortable position in terms of public opinion.

    • After inheriting a fortune from her late grandfather, Sarah moved into a luxurious penthouse with stunning views of the city. She now spends her days lounging on the balcony, sipping cocktails, and soaking up the sun. Sarah's friends and family often comment on how happy and content she seems, saying that she's "sitting pretty" in her newfound wealth and lifestyle.

      The idiom "sitting pretty" is used to describe a person who is enjoying a comfortable and privileged situation, often as a result of luck or circumstances beyond their control. In Sarah's case, she inherited a large sum of money, allowing her to live a lavish lifestyle and enjoy the benefits of being "sitting pretty". The phrase suggests that the person is in a position of advantage, with everything they need at their disposal and no immediate worries or concerns.

    • The CEO of the company presented the financial reports to the board, proudly saying that the company is sitting pretty with impressive profits and minimal debts.

      "Sitting pretty" is a figurative expression used to describe someone or a situation that is in a comfortable and advantageous position. In this example, the company has achieved a favorable financial status, and the CEO is proud to communicate this positive situation to the board.

    • Sarah's parents had saved up a substantial amount for her education, giving her the luxury of picking her desired courses without any financial worries. She could proudly say that she was sitting pretty when she enrolled in the prestigious university.

      "Sitting pretty" can also be used to describe an individual who is in a favorable position due to their resources or circumstances. In this case, Sarah's financial security gave her the luxury of choosing her preferred education path without the added pressure of financial constraints.

    • The author of the best-selling novel had hit the jackpot, winning critical acclaim and multiple awards. Now, she could say that she was sitting pretty in the literary world.

      "Sitting pretty" can be applied to an individual's professional or personal success. The author's successful career trajectory has established her as a prominent figure in the literary community, and she is in a comfortable and advantageous position due to her achievements.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "sitting pretty" can be used in two different contexts. It can either refer to being in a favorable or advantageous position or to the appearance of being attractive or well-presented. In both cases, it conveys a sense of comfort and security.

    In the first meaning, "sitting pretty" is often used to describe a person or a situation that is in a comfortable or advantageous position. It can be used to express contentment with one's current state or to highlight the ease and security of a particular situation. In the second meaning, the idiom is used to describe someone or something that looks attractive or well put together, often in a stylish or fashionable way.

    Overall, "sitting pretty" is a versatile idiom that can be used to convey a sense of comfort, security, and attractiveness in different contexts.

    Origin of "Sitting pretty"

    The origin of the idiom "sitting pretty" can be traced back to the early 20th century. The word "sitting" in this context refers to being in a particular state or position, while "pretty" conveys the idea of being attractive or aesthetically pleasing. The idiom likely originated from a combination of these two words to convey the idea of being in a comfortable or advantageous position.

    The idiom has been used in various forms of literature and speech over the years, solidifying its place in the English language. It has become a common expression to describe a favorable or advantageous situation, as well as to compliment someone's appearance or presentation. The origins of idioms are often difficult to pinpoint, but "sitting pretty" has certainly become a popular and widely understood phrase in modern English.