put wind in your sails

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "put wind in your sails" is correct and perfectly usable in written English.
It is an idiom that means to give someone the inspiration and energy they need to accomplish something. For example, you might say: "My professor's words of encouragement put wind in my sails and motivated me to finish my project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Inclement weather can put wind in the sails and propel the boat at its top speed.

The New York Times - Sports

The budget will put wind in the sails of business investment, especially for manufacturers.

The Guardian

"Werner thought that by proceeding ahead he'd put wind in the sails of the project," she said.

The New Yorker

He lost the Republican nomination in 2008 but hopes the Senate victory by Scott Brown in nearby Massachusetts will put wind in his sails.

The New York Times

But if all goes according to plan, and the new turbine does not need such ministrations, it would put wind in the sails of far-offshore power generation.

The Economist

But if all goes according to plan, and the turbine does not need such ministrations, it would put wind in the sails of far-offshore power generation.

The Economist

The death of Margaret Thatcher has put wind in the sails of Maggie and Me, but Damian Barr's memoir would have managed perfectly well on its own.

The Guardian - Books

That definitely put wind in the sails [of the project]." Bloody Sunday has the look of a 1970s World in Action documentary combined with the cinematic intensity of a thriller.

Independent

Parmalat could put wind in the sails of proposals Mr. Tremonti has made in the past to create a single authority out of the current patchwork of oversight bodies.

The New York Times

Mr Cuffaro is on trial for aiding and abetting the Mafia, and his opponent, in a contest dominated by the issue of organised crime, was the sister of Paolo Borsellino, a legendary anti-Mafia prosecutor assassinated 14 years ago.The centre-left's unexpectedly good showing elsewhere has put wind in its sails at a psychologically crucial moment.

The Economist

That should put wind in the sails of the many other public figures who suspect they were targets.In a third twist, Keir Starmer, the director of public prosecutions, attacked the Metropolitan Police for trying to shift blame for its original, tame inquiry to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using the idiom. It may not resonate with those unfamiliar with sailing or nautical terminology. In such cases, use similar phrases such as "boost morale" or "energize".

Common error

Avoid using "put wind in your sails" to describe actions that hinder progress. The idiom specifically refers to actions that facilitate advancement or provide a boost, not the opposite.

Linguistic Context

Put wind in your sails functions as an idiomatic expression. It primarily acts as a verb phrase, describing the action of providing motivation or encouragement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status. Examples illustrate its use in describing events that positively impact progress on projects or in business.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiom "put wind in your sails" means to provide encouragement or motivation that helps someone progress. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, confirming that it’s a usable expression. While appropriate for a range of contexts, from News & Media to Formal & Business, this idiom is best suited for moderately formal to informal settings. If a more formal tone is required, consider alternatives such as "give impetus to" or "invigorate". Remember to use it when referring to actions that boost progress, not hinder it. Finally, always consider the audience to ensure the nautical metaphor resonates effectively.The authoritative sources include The New York Times, The Guardian, The Economist, Huffington Post, and TechCrunch.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give a boost

Highlights the act of providing an additional surge of power or motivation.

spur on

Implies encouraging someone to try harder or do better.

give impetus to

Focuses on giving an initial push or driving force.

boost morale

Focuses on improving the overall spirit and confidence.

stoke the engine

Suggests the intensification of existing momentum.

fuel the fire

Suggests intensifying existing enthusiasm or momentum.

re-energize

Implies restoring lost energy or enthusiasm.

galvanize into action

Emphasizes energizing someone to take immediate steps.

invigorate

Highlights the act of energizing and refreshing.

recharge

Focuses on the act of replenishing energy and motivation.

FAQs

What does it mean to "put wind in your sails"?

To "put wind in your sails" means to give someone the encouragement, motivation, or assistance needed to move forward and succeed in a particular endeavor. It implies providing a boost that helps them progress towards their goals.

How can I use "put wind in your sails" in a sentence?

You can use "put wind in your sails" to describe actions or events that inspire or motivate someone. For example, "The positive feedback from the client really "boosted morale" and "put wind in their sails".".

What are some alternatives to saying "put wind in your sails"?

Alternatives to "put wind in your sails" include phrases like "give a boost", "fuel the fire", or "spur on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "put wind in your sails" in formal writing?

While "put wind in your sails" is generally acceptable, it's more suited for informal or moderately formal contexts. In highly formal writing, you might prefer alternatives such as "give impetus to" or "invigorate" to maintain a more professional tone.