Leg up
Meaning
An advantage or assistance that helps someone succeed or progress more easily.
Origin
The phrase "leg up" gallops straight from the stables of horsemanship. Picture a rider, perhaps a child or someone struggling with a particularly tall mount, needing a boost. A helper would cup their hands, creating a stirrup-like platform for the rider's foot. With a strong push, the rider would be given a literal "leg up," vaulting them into the saddle with ease. This simple, physical act of providing crucial assistance to overcome a hurdle became the perfect metaphor for any advantage that helps one overcome an obstacle, smoothly transitioning from the paddock to our common lexicon.
Examples
- Getting that coveted internship really gave her a significant leg up in the highly competitive job market.
- His mentor's introduction to the CEO provided him with an unexpected leg up, opening doors he couldn't have on his own.