Knock the wind out of your sails Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To suddenly reduce someone's confidence, enthusiasm, or excitement, usually after some disappointment or discouraging news.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiomatic, informal expression. Commonly used when someone feels discouraged after facing a setback or hearing bad news. Often used in the passive: 'That really knocked the wind out of my sails.' Can refer to emotional or motivational impact, not physical.
Example Sentences
Getting bad grades can really knock the wind out of your sails.
basic
Losing the game knocked the wind out of their sails.
basic
The criticism from her boss knocked the wind out of her sails.
basic
When I heard the project was canceled, it really knocked the wind out of my sails.
natural
That rude comment just knocked the wind out of my sails and I didn't feel like talking anymore.
natural
Every time I make progress, something happens to knock the wind out of my sails.
natural