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A1 noun #215 am häufigsten 17 Min. Lesezeit

feet

Top 215

At the A1 level, 'feet' is introduced as a basic body part. Students learn that humans have two feet at the bottom of their legs. The primary focus is on the irregular plural: one foot, two feet. Learners use it in simple sentences like 'I have two feet' or 'My feet are small.' It is often taught alongside other body parts like hands, head, and legs. At this stage, the word is strictly literal and physical. Teachers use pictures and physical actions (like pointing to their feet) to help students remember the word. The goal is to recognize the word in speech and use it in basic descriptions of themselves or others. There is no mention of measurement or idioms yet.

At the A2 level, the use of 'feet' expands to include daily activities and clothing. Students learn to talk about wearing shoes and socks on their feet. They might use sentences like 'I put my shoes on my feet' or 'My feet are cold in winter.' The concept of 'sore feet' or 'tired feet' after walking is also introduced. Learners start to see 'feet' in simple instructions, such as 'Stand on your feet.' They also begin to encounter 'feet' as a unit of measurement in basic contexts, like describing someone's height (e.g., 'He is five feet tall'). The focus remains largely literal, but the vocabulary surrounding the word becomes more varied with the addition of common adjectives and verbs.

At the B1 level, students begin to encounter 'feet' in more idiomatic and metaphorical expressions. They learn phrases like 'on foot' to describe traveling by walking. They might also be introduced to common idioms like 'to get cold feet' (to be nervous) or 'to stand on your own two feet' (to be independent). In terms of measurement, B1 learners are expected to use 'feet' more confidently in descriptions of objects and distances. They also start to distinguish between 'foot' and 'feet' in compound adjectives (e.g., 'a six-foot wall'). The word 'feet' starts to appear in more complex texts, such as stories or news articles, where it might describe a character's movement or the dimensions of a scene.

At the B2 level, learners explore the more nuanced and technical uses of 'feet'. They might encounter the word in sports commentary, discussing 'footwork' or 'quick feet'. In literature, they see 'feet' used to create imagery or rhythm (poetic feet). They are expected to understand a wider range of idioms, such as 'to have itchy feet' (a desire to travel) or 'to drag one's feet' (to delay). B2 students should also be aware of the cultural significance of feet in different societies, such as shoe-removal traditions. Their use of the word in measurement becomes more precise, and they can easily switch between literal and figurative meanings depending on the context. They are also more likely to use synonyms like 'paws' or 'hooves' when appropriate.

At the C1 level, the word 'feet' is used with high levels of idiomatic precision and stylistic variety. Learners understand subtle idioms like 'feet of clay' (a fundamental flaw in someone admired) or 'to keep one's feet on the ground' (to remain practical). They can use the word in formal, academic, or professional contexts, such as discussing 'pedal' anatomy in a biology essay or 'square feet' in a real estate contract. C1 students are sensitive to the connotations of the word and can use it to achieve specific effects in their writing. They also have a deep understanding of the etymology and historical development of the word, recognizing its relationship to other Germanic languages.

At the C2 level, mastery of 'feet' is complete. The learner can use the word in all its literal, figurative, and technical senses with the ease of a native speaker. They can appreciate and use 'feet' in complex puns, wordplay, and sophisticated literary metaphors. They understand the historical shifts in the imperial measurement system and the various ways 'feet' has been used in English literature from Chaucer to the present day. A C2 learner can navigate the most obscure idioms and technical jargon involving 'feet' without hesitation. They can also discuss the philosophical implications of 'feet' as our primary connection to the physical world, using the word as a starting point for deep intellectual inquiry.

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feet in 30 Sekunden

Feet is the plural of foot, referring to the body parts at the bottom of the legs used for walking and standing.
It is also a unit of measurement used in the US and UK, where one foot equals twelve inches.
The word is an irregular plural, meaning you should never use 'foots' in any context.
Feet appears in many common English idioms related to nervousness, independence, and movement.

The word feet is the plural form of 'foot'. It refers to the terminal part of the vertebrate leg upon which an individual stands. In humans, the feet are complex anatomical structures consisting of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than a hundred muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This intricate design allows for a wide range of movements, from the delicate balance required by a ballerina to the explosive power needed by a sprinter. People use this word most commonly when discussing physical movement, clothing like shoes and socks, or health issues related to the lower extremities. Understanding the term 'feet' is fundamental because it is one of the first body parts taught in language acquisition. It is used in daily routines, such as putting on shoes or washing in the shower. Beyond the physical, 'feet' also serves as a unit of measurement in the imperial system, predominantly used in the United States, where one foot equals twelve inches. This dual meaning makes it a versatile and essential word in the English lexicon.

Anatomical Context: In biological terms, feet are the structures that provide support and propulsion. They are composed of the tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges. The heel, the arch, and the ball of the foot are specific areas often discussed in medical or athletic contexts.

After a long day of hiking through the rugged mountains, my feet were incredibly sore and needed a cold soak.

When we talk about 'feet' in a social context, we often refer to footwear. We buy shoes that fit our feet, we wear socks to keep our feet warm, and we might even get a pedicure to make our feet look better. In many cultures, the feet are considered the lowliest part of the body because they touch the ground and can get dirty. This has led to various social norms, such as removing shoes before entering a home in many Asian and Middle Eastern cultures to avoid bringing the 'dirt of the world' inside. Conversely, in some Western cultures, keeping shoes on is standard practice. The word 'feet' thus carries not just physical meaning but cultural weight. It is also a word that appears in countless idioms. If someone has 'cold feet', they are nervous about a big decision. If they are 'on their feet', they are standing or have recovered from an illness. The versatility of the word 'feet' is unmatched, appearing in poetry, medical journals, and construction blueprints alike.

Measurement Context: In the United States and a few other countries, 'feet' is a standard unit of length. For example, a person might be six feet tall, or a room might be twelve feet wide. This usage is distinct from the anatomical plural but shares the same spelling and pronunciation.

Furthermore, the concept of 'feet' extends into the animal kingdom. While we usually call them 'paws' for dogs or 'hooves' for horses, the general term for the lower extremity remains 'feet' in many scientific descriptions. In the world of sports, feet are the primary tools for soccer players, runners, and swimmers. The way a person uses their feet can determine their success in these fields. For instance, 'footwork' is a critical skill in boxing and tennis, referring to the agility and positioning of the feet. In literature, feet can symbolize a journey or a person's path in life. 'Walking in someone else's shoes' implies understanding their journey through their feet. The word is ubiquitous, appearing in nearly every aspect of human life, from the moment we take our first steps as toddlers to the steady gait of an elderly person using a cane. It is a word that connects our physical presence to the earth beneath us.

The toddler giggled as the cold waves splashed over her tiny feet at the edge of the shore.

Symbolic Usage: Feet often symbolize grounding and reality. To have 'both feet on the ground' means to be practical and sensible, whereas 'swept off one's feet' suggests a sudden, overwhelming emotional experience, usually romantic.

The mountain stands ten thousand feet above sea level, piercing the clouds with its peak.

He was so nervous about the wedding that he started to get cold feet just minutes before the ceremony.

Please wipe your feet on the mat before you come into the house.

Using the word feet correctly involves understanding its role as an irregular plural noun. Unlike most English nouns that add an 's' to become plural (like 'hand' to 'hands'), 'foot' changes its internal vowel to become 'feet'. This transformation is a remnant of Old English and is shared with words like 'goose/geese' and 'tooth/teeth'. When constructing sentences, you must ensure that the surrounding verbs and pronouns agree with this plural form. For example, you would say 'My feet are cold' rather than 'My feet is cold'. The word 'feet' often appears with possessive adjectives such as 'my', 'your', 'his', 'her', 'our', and 'their', as we frequently talk about our own or others' bodies. It is also commonly paired with prepositions like 'on', 'at', and 'under'. For instance, 'I am on my feet all day' implies a state of standing or working, while 'The cat is at my feet' describes a physical position.

Subject-Verb Agreement: Since 'feet' is plural, it always takes a plural verb. Example: 'His feet ache after the marathon.' Using a singular verb like 'aches' would be grammatically incorrect in this context.

She dipped her feet into the cool water of the swimming pool to escape the summer heat.

In the context of measurement, 'feet' is used to describe height, length, and depth. In these sentences, 'feet' is usually preceded by a number. For example, 'The ceiling is ten feet high.' Interestingly, when used as a compound adjective before a noun, the singular 'foot' is often used instead of 'feet'. For example, we say 'a ten-foot pole' rather than 'a ten-feet pole'. This is a subtle rule that even advanced learners sometimes struggle with. However, when the measurement follows the noun, the plural 'feet' is used: 'The pole is ten feet long.' This distinction is crucial for achieving natural-sounding English. Additionally, 'feet' is used in many phrasal expressions. 'To get back on one's feet' means to recover from a setback. 'To stand on one's own two feet' means to be independent. These phrases are used in both literal and metaphorical senses, adding depth to your communication.

Prepositional Phrases: Common phrases include 'on foot' (meaning walking), 'at the feet of' (meaning in a position of submission or learning), and 'under feet' (meaning being stepped on or in the way).

Adjectives frequently modify 'feet' to provide more detail. You might describe feet as 'bare', 'sore', 'tired', 'large', 'small', 'flat', or 'webbed'. In medical contexts, you might hear about 'swollen feet' or 'aching feet'. In fashion, you might discuss 'well-shod feet' (feet wearing good shoes). The word also appears in instructions, such as 'Keep your feet together' or 'Spread your feet shoulder-width apart'. These are common in physical education, yoga, and dance classes. In technical writing, 'feet' might refer to the base of a piece of furniture, like 'the feet of the table'. This metaphorical extension of the body part to an object's support structure is a common feature of English. Whether you are describing a person's physical appearance, measuring the height of a skyscraper, or using a colorful idiom, 'feet' is a word that requires attention to pluralization and context-specific rules.

The basketball player is seven feet tall, making him a dominant force on the court.

Descriptive Adjectives: Using adjectives like 'bare' or 'naked' can change the tone of the sentence. 'Bare feet' often implies a sense of freedom or vulnerability, while 'sore feet' implies labor or exhaustion.

He stood on his own two feet and refused any financial help from his parents.

The furniture movers were careful not to scratch the floor with the heavy feet of the sofa.

The distance between the two posts is exactly twenty feet.

You will encounter the word feet in a vast array of real-world situations. In everyday conversation, it is most frequently heard in the context of physical comfort or discomfort. For example, after a long walk, a friend might say, 'My feet are killing me!' This hyperbolic expression is a common way to signal exhaustion. In a retail environment, specifically shoe stores, the word is ubiquitous. Sales associates will ask, 'How do these feel on your feet?' or 'Would you like me to measure your feet?' In these settings, the word is central to the transaction. You also hear it in medical settings, such as at a podiatrist's office (a doctor who specializes in feet). They might discuss 'foot health', but when referring to both, they will use 'feet'. They might say, 'You need to keep your feet dry to avoid infections.'

At the Shoe Store: 'These shoes are a bit tight around the toes; do you have a wider size for my feet?' is a typical sentence you might hear or say while shopping.

The coach shouted from the sidelines, 'Get those feet moving! We need more energy!'

In the world of sports, 'feet' is a constant topic. Soccer commentators frequently praise a player's 'quick feet' or 'skillful feet' when they dribble past defenders. In American football, 'feet' are mentioned when a receiver tries to stay in bounds, with the announcer saying, 'He got both feet down!' In track and field, the focus is on how the feet strike the ground. Beyond sports, you'll hear 'feet' in construction and DIY contexts. If you are buying lumber or measuring a room in the US, Canada, or the UK, 'feet' is the unit of choice. A contractor might say, 'We need twenty feet of copper piping' or 'The deck will be twelve feet by fifteen feet.' In aviation and mountain climbing, 'feet' is the standard unit for altitude. Pilots regularly announce, 'We are currently cruising at thirty thousand feet.' This usage is so common that it becomes second nature to English speakers in those regions.

In Aviation: 'The aircraft is descending through five thousand feet.' In this context, 'feet' is a critical unit for safety and navigation.

In more formal or literary settings, 'feet' might be used metaphorically. A graduation speaker might tell students to 'stand on their own two feet' as they enter the workforce. In religious or historical texts, you might read about people 'falling at the feet' of a ruler or deity, signifying total submission or respect. In the kitchen, you might hear about 'pig's feet' or 'chicken feet' as culinary ingredients in various world cuisines. In the bathroom, you might hear a parent telling a child, 'Don't forget to wash between your feet.' The word is truly everywhere. From the heights of the atmosphere to the very ground we walk on, 'feet' is a term that bridges the gap between our physical bodies and the world we measure and navigate. Whether it's a doctor's diagnosis, a pilot's announcement, or a friend's complaint about sore muscles, 'feet' is a word you will hear every single day.

The pilot announced that the plane was flying at an altitude of 35,000 feet.

In the Kitchen: 'In some cultures, braised chicken feet are considered a delicacy and are prized for their texture.' Here, 'feet' refers to the animal part used as food.

I'm not a very good dancer; I always feel like I have two left feet.

The yoga instructor told us to keep our feet flat on the mat and breathe deeply.

He was six feet under, a common idiom meaning someone has passed away and been buried.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with the word feet is incorrect pluralization. Because the vast majority of English nouns become plural by adding '-s' or '-es', it is very tempting for beginners to say 'foots'. However, 'foot' is an irregular noun, and its only correct plural form is 'feet'. This mistake is often seen in early stages of language learning but can persist if not corrected. Another common error involves subject-verb agreement. Since 'feet' is plural, it must be paired with plural verbs. Saying 'My feet hurts' is incorrect; the correct form is 'My feet hurt'. Similarly, you should use 'these' or 'those' instead of 'this' or 'that' when referring to feet. For example, 'These feet are tired' is correct, while 'This feet are tired' is not. These grammatical nuances are essential for sounding like a fluent speaker.

The 'Foots' Error: Incorrect: 'I have two foots.' Correct: 'I have two feet.' This is a classic irregular plural that must be memorized.

Incorrect: My feet is sore. Correct: My feet are sore.

Confusion also arises in the use of 'foot' versus 'feet' in measurements. As mentioned earlier, when a measurement acts as an adjective before a noun, the singular 'foot' is used. A common mistake is saying 'a six-feet-tall man' instead of 'a six-foot-tall man'. However, when the measurement is not an adjective, the plural is used: 'The man is six feet tall.' This 'adjective rule' applies to many measurements in English (like 'a five-dollar bill' or 'a ten-mile run') and is a frequent stumbling block. Additionally, the phrase 'on foot' is often mangled. Learners might say 'by foot' or 'on feet'. While 'by foot' is occasionally heard, 'on foot' is the standard idiomatic expression for walking. 'On feet' is almost always incorrect when describing a mode of transportation. Mastery of these specific phrases will significantly improve your idiomatic accuracy.

Measurement Confusion: Incorrect: 'It is a ten-feet ladder.' Correct: 'It is a ten-foot ladder.' Use the singular form when it modifies the noun directly.

Another area of confusion is the distinction between 'feet' and other similar body parts in animals. For example, you wouldn't usually say a horse has 'feet'; you would say it has 'hooves'. A dog has 'paws'. While 'feet' is a general term that can technically apply, using the specific animal term is much more natural. In idioms, the word 'feet' must be used exactly. For example, the idiom is 'to get cold feet', not 'to get cold foot'. Changing the number in an idiom often destroys its meaning. Finally, spelling can be a minor issue. Some learners might confuse 'feet' with 'feat' (an achievement) or 'fete' (a celebration). These are homophones, meaning they sound the same but are spelled differently and have different meanings. Paying attention to the context—whether you're talking about walking, measuring, or achieving something—will help you choose the right word and spelling every time.

Incorrect: We went there by feet. Correct: We went there on foot.

Homophone Alert: 'Feat' means a great deed. 'Feet' are what you walk on. Example: 'Climbing Everest was a great feat for his tired feet.'

Incorrect: Those feet is very big. Correct: Those feet are very big.

Incorrect: I have ten feet on each foot. Correct: I have five toes on each foot.

Incorrect: The water was three foot deep. Correct: The water was three feet deep.

While feet is the most common and general term, there are several other words you can use depending on the context. If you are talking about animals, you might use more specific terms. For mammals with claws, like cats, dogs, or bears, 'paws' is the correct word. For ungulates like horses, cows, or deer, 'hooves' is used. Birds of prey have 'talons', while other birds simply have 'feet'. Using these specific terms makes your English sound more precise and natural. In a more informal or slang context, you might hear people refer to feet as 'tootsies' (often used with children) or 'dogs' (as in 'my dogs are barking', meaning my feet hurt). These are very casual and should be used sparingly, but they are good to recognize. In medical or anatomical discussions, you might refer to the 'pedal' region, which is the adjective form of foot.

Animal Specifics: Paws (cats/dogs), Hooves (horses), Talons (eagles). These are all 'feet' in a general sense but have specific names in English.

The kitten's paws were soft and white, looking like tiny socks.

When 'feet' is used to mean the bottom or base of something, synonyms like 'base', 'bottom', 'foundation', or 'pedestal' might be more appropriate. For example, you might talk about the 'base of a mountain' instead of the 'feet of a mountain', although 'foothills' is a common term for the smaller hills at the bottom. For furniture, you can use 'legs' or 'feet' interchangeably in some cases, but 'feet' specifically refers to the very bottom part that touches the floor. In poetry and literature, 'feet' can be replaced by 'steps' or 'tread' to describe the sound or action of walking. 'His heavy tread echoed in the hallway' sounds more evocative than 'The sound of his feet echoed'. Understanding these alternatives allows you to vary your vocabulary and choose the word that best fits the tone of your writing or speech.

Base and Foundation: When referring to objects, 'base' is often more formal. 'The base of the statue' vs 'The feet of the statue'.

In the context of measurement, there aren't many direct synonyms for 'feet' because it is a specific unit. However, you might convert the measurement to 'meters' or 'centimeters' if you are using the metric system. One foot is approximately 30.48 centimeters. In nautical contexts, depth might be measured in 'fathoms' (one fathom is six feet), although this is becoming less common. When describing the act of walking, instead of 'on foot', you could say 'pedestrian' (as in 'pedestrian traffic') or 'walking'. For example, 'The area is for pedestrians only' means you can only go there on foot. Each of these alternatives carries a slightly different nuance, and learning when to use 'feet' versus a more specific term is a key part of advancing your English proficiency.

The statue stood on a marble pedestal, raising it above the crowd.

Measurement Alternatives: Meters, centimeters, yards, and inches are related units. 3 feet = 1 yard. 12 inches = 1 foot.

The horse's hooves thundered against the dry earth as it galloped across the field.

The base of the lamp is made of heavy brass to prevent it from tipping over.

He walked with a light step, barely making a sound on the wooden floor.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

"The structural integrity of the monument is supported by its massive stone feet."

Neutral

"I need to buy new shoes because my feet have grown."

Informell

"My feet are killing me after that concert!"

Child friendly

"Look at the duck's webbed feet; they help him swim!"

Umgangssprache

"Get your dogs off the coffee table!"

Wusstest du?

The use of 'foot' as a measurement comes from the actual length of a human foot, which varied until it was standardized. In ancient times, the 'foot' was often based on the foot size of the reigning monarch.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /fiːt/

US /fit/

Single syllable, so the stress is on the entire word.

Reimt sich auf

Meet Seat Beat Heat Neat Sheet Street Greet

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'ee' too short, making it sound like 'fit'.
Adding an 's' to make 'feets', which is incorrect.
Confusing the pronunciation with 'feat' (though they are homophones).
Not fully pronouncing the final 't' sound.
Over-aspirating the 'f' sound.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text.

Schreiben 2/5

Requires remembering the irregular plural spelling.

Sprechen 1/5

Simple pronunciation, though the final 't' is important.

Hören 1/5

Easily understood in context.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

Leg Body Walk Stand One

Als Nächstes lernen

Shoes Socks Toes Ankle Inches

Fortgeschritten

Podiatry Orthotics Bipedalism Metrical Imperial

Wichtige Grammatik

Irregular Plurals

Foot -> Feet, Tooth -> Teeth, Goose -> Geese.

Subject-Verb Agreement with Plural Nouns

My feet ARE (not is) sore.

Compound Adjectives with Measurements

A six-foot (not feet) tall man.

Fixed Idiomatic Phrases

On foot (never on feet or by foot).

Possessive Adjectives with Body Parts

MY feet, YOUR feet, HIS feet.

Beispiele nach Niveau

I have two feet.

J'ai deux pieds.

Notice the irregular plural: one foot, two feet.

My feet are small.

Mes pieds sont petits.

Use 'are' because 'feet' is plural.

Wash your feet.

Lave tes pieds.

This is an imperative sentence (a command).

He has big feet.

Il a de grands pieds.

'Big' is an adjective describing 'feet'.

Point to your feet.

Montre tes pieds.

Simple verb-object structure.

Where are your feet?

Où sont tes pieds ?

Question form using 'where' and plural 'are'.

Put socks on your feet.

Mets des chaussettes à tes pieds.

Preposition 'on' shows location.

The baby has tiny feet.

Le bébé a de tout petits pieds.

'Tiny' is a stronger adjective than 'small'.

My feet are tired after walking.

Mes pieds sont fatigués après avoir marché.

'Tired' describes the state of the feet.

He is six feet tall.

Il mesure six pieds.

Here, 'feet' is a unit of measurement.

Take your shoes off your feet.

Enlève tes chaussures de tes pieds.

Phrasal verb 'take off' used with 'feet'.

The water is two feet deep.

L'eau fait deux pieds de profondeur.

'Deep' describes the measurement of the water.

She has cold feet in the winter.

Elle a les pieds froids en hiver.

Literal use of 'cold feet'.

Keep your feet on the floor.

Garde tes pieds au sol.

Preposition 'on' used for contact.

The dog is lying at my feet.

Le chien est couché à mes pieds.

'At my feet' indicates close proximity.

I need new shoes for my feet.

J'ai besoin de nouvelles chaussures pour mes pieds.

'For' indicates the purpose of the shoes.

We decided to go to the park on foot.

Nous avons décidé d'aller au parc à pied.

'On foot' is a fixed idiom meaning walking.

He got cold feet before the wedding.

Il a eu la frousse avant le mariage.

Idiom meaning to become nervous or hesitant.

You need to stand on your own two feet.

Tu dois voler de tes propres ailes.

Idiom meaning to be independent.

The table has four wooden feet.

La table a quatre pieds en bois.

Metaphorical use for furniture supports.

The room is twelve feet wide.

La pièce fait douze pieds de large.

Plural 'feet' used for measurement.

She was swept off her feet by the news.

Elle a été transportée par la nouvelle.

Idiom meaning to be overwhelmed with emotion.

He is finally back on his feet after the accident.

Il est enfin remis sur pied après l'accident.

Idiom meaning to recover.

Don't drag your feet on this project.

Ne traîne pas les pieds sur ce projet.

Idiom meaning to delay or act slowly.

The athlete has incredibly quick feet.

L'athlète a des pieds incroyablement rapides.

Refers to agility and speed in sports.

The mountain rises 14,000 feet above sea level.

La montagne s'élève à 14 000 pieds au-dessus du niveau de la mer.

Standard unit for altitude.

He has a tendency to put his foot in his mouth.

Il a tendance à mettre les pieds dans le plat.

Note the singular 'foot' in this specific idiom.

The dancer's feet were bruised from practice.

Les pieds de la danseuse étaient couverts de bleus à cause de l'entraînement.

Describes physical condition due to activity.

We need to find a way to get our feet in the door.

Nous devons trouver un moyen de mettre un pied dans la place.

Idiom meaning to get a first opportunity.

The house has 2,000 square feet of living space.

La maison dispose de 2 000 pieds carrés de surface habitable.

'Square feet' is a unit of area.

She always keeps her feet on the ground.

Elle garde toujours les pieds sur terre.

Idiom meaning to be practical and realistic.

The cat landed on its feet, as usual.

Le chat est retombé sur ses pattes, comme d'habitude.

Literal and metaphorical (to recover well).

The CEO was revealed to have feet of clay.

On a découvert que le PDG avait des pieds d'argile.

Idiom referring to a hidden flaw in a respected person.

The poem is written in iambic feet.

Le poème est écrit en pieds iambiques.

Technical term in prosody (poetry rhythm).

He was dead on his feet by the end of the shift.

Il était mort de fatigue à la fin de son service.

Idiom meaning extremely tired but still standing.

The protesters voted with their feet and left the city.

Les manifestants ont voté avec leurs pieds et ont quitté la ville.

Idiom meaning to show dissatisfaction by leaving.

She has the world at her feet after winning the award.

Elle a le monde à ses pieds après avoir remporté le prix.

Idiom meaning to have many opportunities and success.

The child was constantly under feet while I was cooking.

L'enfant était constamment dans mes jambes pendant que je cuisinais.

Idiom meaning to be in the way.

He struggled to find his feet in the new corporate culture.

Il a eu du mal à trouver ses marques dans la nouvelle culture d'entreprise.

Idiom meaning to become comfortable or successful in a new situation.

The project is finally finding its feet after a rocky start.

Le projet commence enfin à prendre forme après un début difficile.

Metaphorical use for an organization or project.

The protagonist's journey is a literal and metaphorical measurement of his feet's endurance.

Le voyage du protagoniste est une mesure littérale et métaphorique de l'endurance de ses pieds.

Complex sentence using 'feet' in dual senses.

The architect meticulously calculated the square feet of the atrium to maximize natural light.

L'architecte a méticuleusement calculé la surface en pieds carrés de l'atrium pour maximiser la lumière naturelle.

Technical use in professional context.

The sheer scale of the monument, standing hundreds of feet tall, left the spectators in awe.

L'ampleur du monument, haut de plusieurs centaines de pieds, a laissé les spectateurs en admiration.

Descriptive use for immense scale.

His argument was knocked out from under his feet by the new evidence.

Son argument a été balayé par les nouvelles preuves.

Advanced idiom for losing support or validity.

The poet masterfully manipulated the metrical feet to mirror the heartbeat of the narrator.

Le poète a manipulé avec brio les pieds métriques pour refléter le battement de cœur du narrateur.

Highly specialized literary usage.

To truly understand the culture, one must walk a mile in their feet, so to speak.

Pour vraiment comprendre la culture, il faut, pour ainsi dire, se mettre à leur place.

Variation on a common idiom for empathy.

The company's rapid expansion meant they had to think on their feet to solve logistical nightmares.

L'expansion rapide de l'entreprise les a obligés à réagir au quart de tour pour résoudre des cauchemars logistiques.

Idiom meaning to think and react quickly.

The ancient ruins lay at the feet of the towering cliffs, forgotten by time.

Les ruines antiques gisaient au pied des falaises imposantes, oubliées par le temps.

Poetic use of 'feet' to describe the base of a natural feature.

Synonyme

paws hooves trotters extremities claws

Gegenteile

hands head

Häufige Kollokationen

Bare feet

Sore feet

Flat feet

Quick feet

Square feet

Cold feet

Wet feet

Tired feet

Small feet

Big feet

Häufige Phrasen

On foot

At your feet

Under feet

Off your feet

Keep your feet

Find your feet

On your feet

Back on your feet

Sweep off feet

Jump with both feet

Wird oft verwechselt mit

feet vs Feat

Sounds the same but means a great achievement.

feet vs Fit

Short vowel sound; means to be the right size or healthy.

feet vs Fete

Sounds similar; means a celebration or festival.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Cold feet"

Loss of courage or confidence; nervousness about a planned action.

The groom got cold feet and didn't show up.

Informal

"Drag one's feet"

To act slowly or reluctantly.

The government is dragging its feet on environmental reform.

Neutral

"Stand on one's own two feet"

To be independent and self-reliant.

Now that he has a job, he can stand on his own two feet.

Neutral

"Think on one's feet"

To make decisions quickly and effectively.

A good teacher needs to be able to think on their feet.

Neutral

"Get one's feet wet"

To start doing something for the first time to gain experience.

I'm just getting my feet wet in the world of investing.

Informal

"Have itchy feet"

To have a strong desire to travel or move.

After three years in the same city, she's starting to get itchy feet.

Informal

"Keep one's feet on the ground"

To remain practical and sensible.

Despite her fame, she keeps her feet on the ground.

Neutral

"Feet of clay"

A fundamental flaw in a person who is otherwise admired.

The biography revealed that the national hero had feet of clay.

Formal

"Vote with one's feet"

To show dissatisfaction by leaving a place or organization.

Customers are voting with their feet and going to the new store.

Neutral

"Land on one's feet"

To come out of a difficult situation successfully.

He lost his job, but he landed on his feet with a better one.

Informal

Leicht verwechselbar

feet vs Foot

Singular vs Plural

Foot is one; feet is two or more. This is an irregular plural.

I hurt my left foot, but both my feet are tired.

feet vs Feat

Homophone

Feet are body parts; a feat is an impressive act.

It was a great feat to climb the mountain on your own two feet.

feet vs Paws

Animal feet

Humans have feet; dogs and cats have paws.

The dog has four paws, but I have two feet.

feet vs Hooves

Animal feet

Horses and cows have hooves, which are hard.

The horse's hooves clicked on the pavement.

feet vs Legs

Part of the same limb

The leg is the whole limb; the foot is just the bottom part.

My legs are long, and my feet are at the end of them.

Satzmuster

I have [adjective] feet.

I have small feet.

My feet are [adjective].

My feet are cold.

We went there on foot.

We went to the store on foot.

He is [number] feet tall.

He is five feet tall.

To get cold feet about [noun/gerund].

He got cold feet about getting married.

The [noun] is [number] square feet.

The garden is 500 square feet.

To have the world at one's feet.

After her success, she had the world at her feet.

To find one's feet in [complex situation].

She finally found her feet in the high-stakes world of international finance.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Extremely high; one of the top 1000 words in English.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'foots' as the plural. → Feet
Foot is an irregular noun. Its plural form is feet, not foots.
Saying 'by foot' instead of 'on foot'. → On foot
While 'by foot' is sometimes understood, 'on foot' is the standard idiomatic expression for walking.
Using 'feet' in compound adjectives. → Foot
When used as an adjective before a noun, use the singular: 'a six-foot ladder'.
Subject-verb disagreement. → My feet are sore.
Because 'feet' is plural, it requires the plural verb 'are'.
Confusing 'feet' with 'feat'. → Feet (for body parts)
These are homophones. 'Feet' are for walking; a 'feat' is an achievement.

Tipps

Irregular Plural

Always remember that foot becomes feet. Do not add an 's'. This is one of the most important irregular plurals to learn early on.

On Foot

Use the phrase 'on foot' to describe walking. It is a fixed expression that makes you sound much more like a native speaker.

The Adjective Rule

When measuring something, use 'foot' if it comes before the noun (a 10-foot pole) and 'feet' if it comes after (The pole is 10 feet long).

Animal Terms

Try to use 'paws' or 'hooves' for animals to sound more precise, although 'feet' is technically acceptable in many cases.

Cold Feet

Use 'cold feet' when you want to describe someone being nervous about a big commitment. It's a very common and useful idiom.

Long Vowel

Ensure the 'ee' sound is long. If it's too short, it sounds like 'fit', which is a completely different word.

Shoe Etiquette

In many cultures, feet are considered dirty. Always check if you should remove your shoes before entering someone's home.

Descriptive Words

When writing, use adjectives like 'bare', 'sore', or 'quick' to give more context to the word 'feet'.

Visual Aids

Look at your own feet and say 'feet' to reinforce the connection between the word and the physical body part.

Subject-Verb Agreement

Always use 'are' with 'feet'. For example, 'My feet are cold' is correct. 'My feet is cold' is wrong.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of two 'e's as two feet standing together. One foot has two 'o's (like two eyes looking down), but two feet have two 'e's.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a pair of shoes. Inside those shoes are your feet. The 'ee' in 'feet' looks like two long legs standing side by side.

Word Web

Shoes Socks Walking Running Toes Ankle Heel Measurement

Herausforderung

Try to use the word 'feet' in three different ways today: once for a body part, once for measurement, and once in an idiom.

Wortherkunft

The word 'feet' comes from the Old English 'fēt', which is the plural of 'fōt'. It has Proto-Germanic roots in '*fōts'. This is related to the Dutch 'voet' and German 'Fuß'.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The term has always referred to the terminal part of the leg.

Germanic

Kultureller Kontext

Be aware that in some cultures, feet are considered 'unclean', so avoid putting your feet on tables or pointing them at people.

In the US, height is almost exclusively measured in feet and inches. In the UK, it's a mix of metric and imperial.

The song 'Happy Feet' The movie 'My Left Foot' The idiom 'To have the world at your feet'

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Health and Medicine

Swollen feet
Aching feet
Foot fungus
Flat feet

Shopping

Measure my feet
Wide feet
Comfortable for my feet
Fit my feet

Sports

Quick feet
Footwork
Stay on your feet
Both feet down

Construction

Ten feet long
Square feet
Cubic feet
Running feet

Travel

On foot
Walk on your feet
Tired feet
Bare feet

Gesprächseinstiege

"How many square feet is your new apartment?"

"Do your feet ever hurt after a long day of work?"

"Have you ever tried walking in the snow with bare feet?"

"How tall are you in feet and inches?"

"Do you prefer to travel by car or on foot?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe a time when you had to walk a long distance on foot. How did your feet feel?

Write about a situation where you got 'cold feet'. What happened?

If you could have the feet of any animal, which would you choose and why?

How do you take care of your feet after a long day?

Discuss the importance of 'standing on your own two feet' in your culture.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, 'feets' is never correct in standard English. The plural of foot is always feet. Using 'feets' is a common mistake for children and non-native speakers.

Use 'foot' when the measurement is used as an adjective before a noun, like 'a six-foot tall man'. Use 'feet' when it follows the noun, like 'He is six feet tall'.

It means you are walking. For example, 'I went to the store on foot' means you walked there instead of driving or taking a bus.

Yes, but we often use more specific words like 'paws' for dogs or 'hooves' for horses. However, birds and some other animals are commonly described as having feet.

Footwork refers to the way a person moves their feet in sports, dance, or combat. Good footwork is essential for balance and agility.

It is an idiom that means someone is nervous or hesitant about doing something they had planned, like getting married or starting a new job.

There are exactly 12 inches in one foot. This is a standard unit in the imperial system of measurement.

Square feet is a unit of area. It is used to measure the size of a room or a piece of land. For example, a 10x10 room is 100 square feet.

No, the metric system uses meters and centimeters. However, 'feet' is still widely used in the US, UK, and Canada for certain measurements.

It means to be independent and able to take care of yourself without help from others, especially financially.