Meaning & use
in the wings
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Meanings
phrasefixed phrase
ready and waiting to take over a job or role when the opportunity comes
Grammar: Used after be or wait: be in the wings, wait in the wings.
Patterns
- be in the wings
- wait in the wings
- someone is waiting in the wings
Several young candidates are waiting in the wings for the manager's job.
The deputy leader has been in the wings for years, ready to step up.
There are new technologies in the wings that could change the industry.
phrasefixed phrase
at the sides of a stage, where actors wait before going on
Grammar: Used literally in theater contexts, often with stand or wait.
Patterns
- stand in the wings
- wait in the wings
She stood in the wings, listening for her cue.
From the wings, he watched the final scene.
Common combinations
- wait in the wings
- A younger rival was waiting in the wings.
- be in the wings
- A new generation of leaders is in the wings.
- lurking in the wings
- Problems were lurking in the wings, unnoticed.
- step out of the wings
- She finally stepped out of the wings and took charge.
Synonyms and how they differ
- on standby
- Means ready to act if needed; 'in the wings' more strongly suggests waiting to replace someone.
- in reserve
- Often used for things or players kept ready; 'in the wings' is usually about people and roles.
Opposites
Practice
The coach is retiring, and two assistants are ______, hoping to take his place.
Choose one answer.
'In the wings' means waiting to take over a role, which fits assistants hoping for the job. 'In the saddle' would mean they already control the team.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “in the wings”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.