Everyday Office Jargon · Managing Director level

"Take the wind out of my sails"

"Take the wind out of my sails" means to suddenly deflate someone's enthusiasm, confidence, or momentum.

Say this instead: discourage me

How "Take the wind out of my sails" shows up at work

Most often heard from the person whose idea just got quietly shelved, whose budget just got cut, or who pitched something exciting only to be told it was tried in 2019. The nautical framing adds drama without adding heat.

Buzzword

That feedback really took the wind out of my sails right before the launch.

Plain English

That feedback killed my momentum right before the launch.

Corporate Rank: Managing Director  ·  Category: Everyday Office Jargon

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