PhrasesHub

spread his wings

    Definitions

      • to try new things or gain experience
        Encouraging someone to explore new opportunities or take risks in order to grow and develop personally or professionally

      • gain independence
        Referring to someone breaking free from limitations or restrictions to become more self-sufficient and assertive

    Examples of spread his wings

    • After years of working as a software developer, John decided to spread his wings and start his own company.

      The idiom "spread his wings" is used here to mean that John is leaving his secure job and starting his own business, in much the same way that a bird spreads its wings to leave the nest and become independent.

    • Sarah had been working as a teacher for several years, but she began to feel that she wasn't achieving her full potential. Finally, she decided to spread her wings and take on a new role as a school principal.

      Here, the use of "spread her wings" is similar to the previous example. Sarah is leaving her previous job and taking on new responsibilities in a more important position.

    • After moving to a new city, Mark found it difficult to adjust to the new environment. However, he soon began to spread his wings and made new friends, explored the city, and started to enjoy his new life.

      In this example, "spread his wings" is used to mean that Mark is becoming more independent and confident as he adjusts to his new surroundings.

    • Jake had been working for the same company for over a decade, but he felt that he had reached a dead end in his career. One day, he made the decision to spread his wings and start his own business.

      Once again, "spread his wings" is used to mean that Jake is leaving a secure job and embarking on a new venture. However, in this example, it also reflects Jake's frustration with his current job and his desire to take more control over his career.

    • Tom wanted to become an entrepreneur, but he was working as a software developer for a leading company for over 5 years. He felt that the time had come for him to spread his wings and start his own business.

      Here, 'spread his wings' is used to mean 'pursue his dreams of starting his own business' implying that Tom's desire to start his own company is like a bird spreading its wings to fly. ANOTHER

    • After completing her PhD, Sarah spread her wings and moved across the country to start a new job.

      Here, 'spread her wings' is used to mean 'embark on a new journey' implying that Sarah's job change is like a bird spreading its wings to take off to a new location. THIRD

    • Despite never having performed in front of an audience before, Emma decided to spread her wings and audition for the local musical.

      Here, 'spread her wings' is used to mean 'take on a new challenge' implying that Emma's decision to audition is like a bird spreading its wings to try something new and bold.

    • After working in the same department for 10 years, Susan was eager to spread her wings and explore different areas of the company.

      Here, 'spread her wings' is used to mean 'seek new experiences' implying that Susan's interest in exploring other departments is like a bird spreading its wings to explore new territories.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "spread his wings" is often used to urge someone to step out of their comfort zone, take risks, and embrace new challenges for personal growth. It can also signify gaining independence and breaking free from constraints to become more self-sufficient. Whether in the context of trying new experiences or asserting oneself, the phrase highlights the importance of taking initiative and expanding one's horizons.

    Origin of "spread his wings"

    The origin of the idiom "spread his wings" can be traced back to the behavior of birds. When birds spread their wings, it signifies readiness to fly, explore, or assert themselves. This natural behavior has been metaphorically adopted in human language to convey similar ideas of exploration, growth, and independence. The imagery of a bird spreading its wings to soar freely in the sky has resonated with people as a symbol of breaking free from limitations and embracing new possibilities. Over time, the idiom has become a common expression to encourage individuals to take bold steps towards personal development and self-discovery.