Example: Nach dem Studium wollte sie endlich auf eigenen Beinen stehen.
Definition
"Auf eigenen Beinen stehen" means to be independent and self-reliant, especially financially or in life decisions. It describes a state where someone manages their own affairs without relying on others, like the example phrase where someone wants to stand on their own feet after finishing studies.
The phrase "auf eigenen Beinen stehen" literally translates to 'stand on one's own legs.' It metaphorically signifies independence and self-sufficiency. This expression comes from the idea that standing firmly on one's own legs means not needing support from others. Did you know it is commonly used in German to describe young adults gaining independence?
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"Auf eigenen Beinen stehen" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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stand on one's own feet