I've learnt English only at school. I think I know it pretty well, but there are some expressions I don't understand. I was trying to translate a subtitle from English to my language. So, please tell me what does this mean: "You've got to keep them on their toes." ? It is about a discussion some men had about their workers.
2007-11-05 07:46:12 · 5 answers · asked by ShineAsIlluminatorsInTheWorld 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
"Keep them on their toes" is an expression that means keep someone moving, active, alert, not static.
I think the expression is derived from athletics. Track athletes set to run are on their toes. Infielders in baseball typically get on their toes slightly as each pitch is thrown. Most people run on the balls of their feet, making it easier to move your body and cut from side to side, back pedal and so forth.
Being on your toes ready to run, move side to side etc. gives you a decided advantage to being flat footed or putting the majority of your weight back on your heels. You're readying yourself to move by switching your weight from your heels to your toes.
2007-11-05 08:18:00 · answer #1 · answered by bambam919201 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It means keep watching them and make sure they know you are, so they don't think they can do whatever they feel like.
2007-11-05 15:53:44 · answer #2 · answered by Goddess of Grammar 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It means to keep people guessing and alert and can refer to anyone.
2007-11-05 15:53:36 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it means you have to keep them aware, not complacent, wary and things like that
2007-11-05 15:51:54 · answer #4 · answered by silkin_storm 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
keep them ready and prepared and aware of their surroundings
2007-11-05 16:00:44 · answer #5 · answered by Sasusaku 4ever 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋