Dead on its feet Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Describes someone or something that is extremely tired, exhausted, or barely able to function. Can also refer to a business, organization, or idea that is close to failure.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal idiom. Used for people (extremely tired), but often for businesses, projects, or systems about to collapse. Not literal—don’t use for something actually dead. Often found as 'look dead on your feet' or 'feel dead on my feet.'
Example Sentences
After a long shift, I felt dead on my feet.
basic
This old store is dead on its feet and will probably close soon.
basic
By midnight, we were all dead on our feet from studying.
basic
The company may look successful, but it's actually dead on its feet.
natural
By the time we finished moving, everyone was absolutely dead on their feet.
natural
He tried to hide it, but he looked totally dead on his feet after the double shift.
natural