How Do You Spell RIDE COATTAILS?

1. The phrase "ride coattails" refers to a figurative expression used to describe an individual or entity that relies on the success, popularity, or achievements of someone else to gain advantages or achieve their own goals. Originating from the action of holding onto the coattails of a more influential person in order to benefit from their progress, the term conveys the idea of riding on or exploiting the achievements or reputation of another person or group to achieve personal gain, recognition, or success.

   When someone is said to be riding coattails, they are essentially taking advantage of the accomplishments or resources of another party in order to advance themselves, often without putting in the same level of effort or contribution. This can manifest in various contexts, such as business, politics, or entertainment, where individuals attempt to capitalize on the popularity or reputation of a more successful person to elevate their own status or interests.

   However, the phrase can also carry negative connotations, as it implies a lack of originality, integrity, or talent on the part of the person riding coattails. It suggests that they are unable to stand on their own merits and must rely on the achievements of others.

   In summary, riding coattails refers to the act of leveraging or exploiting the accomplishments, prominence, or resources of someone else to achieve personal advancement or success, often without contributing equally to the same degree of achievement or effort.

Common Misspellings for RIDE COATTAILS

The etymology of the phrase "ride coattails" can be traced back to the literal practice of "riding on someone's coattails". In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was customary for higher-ranking individuals in society to wear coats with long tails. When walking or riding on horseback, these tails would flow behind them. People of lower social status would sometimes try to benefit from the influence, success, or reputation of those above them by holding onto the coattails and letting themselves be carried along.

Over time, this literal act evolved into a metaphorical expression, "to ride on someone's coattails", which means to take advantage of someone else's achievements, popularity, or success. It implies benefiting from the accomplishments of another person without making significant effort or contribution oneself. This phrase is commonly used in various contexts, such as politics, entertainment, or business.

Idioms with the word RIDE COATTAILS