PhrasesHub

taken under the wing

    Definitions

      • protect or nurture someone
        Provide guidance, support, and care for someone in a mentorship or guardianship role

      • take someone under supervision or protection
        Assume responsibility for someone's well-being or development, often in a formal or informal mentorship capacity

    Examples of taken under the wing

    • Sarah's success in the music industry can be attributed to the fact that she was taken under the wing of the famous composer, John Williams, during her early years in the industry.

      This idiom means that Sarah received guidance, mentorship, and support from John Williams, who helped her develop her skills and advance her career in the music industry.

    • After joining the law firm, the junior lawyer, Tom, was taken under the wing of the senior partner, who mentored him and helped him learn the ropes of the legal profession.

      This idiom reflects the fact that Tom benefited from the experience and knowledge of the senior partner, who provided him with valuable insights and guidance as he started his career in law.

    • As a young actor starting out in Hollywood, Jennifer was taken under the wing of the legendary actress, Meryl Streep, who recognized her talent and provided her with opportunities to showcase it in different productions.

      This idiom highlights the supportive and nurturing roles that Meryl Streep played in helping Jennifer develop her skills and launch her career in Hollywood.

    • The new intern, Jane, was taken under the wing of her supervisor, who provided her with the necessary training and guidance to help her adjust to the company's culture and contribute effectively to the organization.

      This idiom illustrates the mentoring and coaching roles that Jane's supervisor played in helping her adapt to her new role in the company and succeed in her career.

    • Sarah, a recent college graduate, was struggling to find a job in her field. She reached out to an experienced professional in her industry, who offered to take her "under his wing" and provide her with mentorship and guidance. This was a critical turning point for Sarah, as she was able to learn a great deal from her mentor and eventually secure a job at a top company in her field.

      The idiom "taken under the wing" refers to the act of providing guidance, support, and protection to someone who is less experienced or knowledgeable in a particular area. This can be especially valuable for individuals who are just starting out in their careers, as it allows them to learn from the experiences and expertise of others who have already achieved success in their field. By taking Sarah "under his wing," the experienced professional was able to share his knowledge and insights with her, helping her to develop the skills and confidence she needed to succeed in her career.

    • The successful entrepreneur took the young and ambitious college graduate under his wing and mentored her through the rigors of starting her own business.

      This idiom refers to the idea of providing guidance and support to someone who is less experienced or skilled in a particular field. The phrase "under the wing" suggests a protective and nurturing environment, much like a mother bird protecting her chicks. In this example, the entrepreneur is using his knowledge and expertise to help the college graduate succeed by providing her with the resources and guidance she needs to be successful. This idiom is often used in a business or professional context to describe a relationship between a more experienced and successful person and someone who is less experienced and requires guidance.

    • The veteran basketball player took the rookie under his wing during practices and helped him adjust to the intensity and rigors of professional basketball.

      In this example, the idiom is being used in a sports context to describe the relationship between an experienced and successful basketball player and a new player who is less experienced and requires guidance. The veteran player is sharing his knowledge and expertise with the rookie in order to help him learn the skills and strategies needed to be successful in the NBA.

    • The experienced teacher took the struggling student under her wing and provided her with extra tutoring and support.

      In this example, the idiom is being used in an academic context to describe the relationship between a teacher and a student who is struggling with his or her coursework. The teacher is using her knowledge and expertise to provide the student with the additional support and guidance he or she needs to succeed.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "taken under the wing" is commonly used to describe the act of protecting, nurturing, or supervising someone. It signifies the role of a mentor or guardian who assumes responsibility for another person's well-being and development. By taking someone under their wing, the mentor provides guidance, support, and care, ensuring that the individual receives the necessary help and protection. This idiom is often used to emphasize the importance of mentorship, guidance, and support in helping someone grow and succeed.

    Origin of "taken under the wing"

    The origin of the idiom "taken under the wing" can be traced back to the imagery of a bird protecting its young under its wings. In many cultures, birds are seen as symbols of care, protection, and guidance, especially when it comes to nurturing their offspring. The act of a bird taking its young under its wing is a powerful symbol of sheltering and safeguarding them from harm.

    This imagery has been metaphorically extended to human relationships, particularly in the context of mentorship and guardianship. When someone is "taken under the wing" of another person, it signifies the act of providing them with the same level of care, protection, and guidance that a bird offers its young. This idiom captures the essence of mentorship and support, highlighting the importance of looking out for others and helping them navigate life's challenges.