shanks' mare
Definition
Noun (Idiomatic) * One's own legs as a means of transportation: The idiom "shanks' mare" (also commonly written as "shank's mare") humorously refers to the act of walking or traveling on foot, using one's own legs. It emphasizes a lack of other transport.
Usage
This idiom is used informally, often with a tone of humor, resignation, or folksy charm. It describes the mode of travel. * It is typically used in the prepositional phrase "on shanks' mare." * It functions as a noun phrase, often as the object of a preposition.
Examples
- With the car broken down, we had to resort to shanks' mare to get home. (We had to walk home.)
- "How are you getting to the store?" "I'm taking shanks' mare." (I am walking.)
- After the bus left, my only option was a long journey on shank's mare.
Advanced Usage
- The idiom can be used to create a vivid, slightly old-fashioned image. It is more colorful than simply saying "walking."
- It often implies that walking was a necessary or default choice, rather than a preferred one.
Variants and Related Words
- Shank's pony: This is a direct synonym and variant of "shanks' mare," with identical meaning and usage (e.g., "I went by shank's pony").
- Pedestrian (n): A person who is walking.
- Afoot (adv): By walking; on foot.
Synonyms
- On foot: The standard, non-idiomatic equivalent.
- By walking: A plain descriptive phrase.
- Hoofing it (slang): Another informal idiom for walking, especially over a distance.
Related Idioms
- To use one's own two feet: A literal phrase with a similar meaning.
- Example: The map said it was close, so we decided to use our own two feet.
Noun
- you own legs
- I traveled on shank's mare
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