Quote
1. Quote - Listen to the quote and guess what the slang means.
“I know there are so many women who can sing much better than I can …. my feet are planted on the ground. I thank the people who have gotten to know me and who buy my music — I appreciate that so much. But I know that I can be replaced.”
Singer Patti LaBelle, speaking about not taking her fame for granted (huffingtonpost.com)
Definition
1. Definition - Study the definition.
be realistic; think about reality; be aware of problems
2. Use - Learn how the slang is used.
Imagine that you want to run a marathon. Can you just buy some running shoes, head out the door, and do it? Probably not! Unless you are already a professional runner, a marathon is a long way to go without training first. If you have your feet on the ground, you know that you’ll need to start with shorter runs and eventually work your way up to the daunting distance of 26.3 miles!
To have one’s feet on the ground means to be realistic. People with their feet on the ground are not big dreamers. They are aware of the problems and challenges in life. Patti LaBelle has been a well-known singer for decades. However, she has a realistic outlook on life and knows that she is famous because of her fans. She is grateful for their support and takes the time to recognize and appreciate them.
Do you have your feet on the ground?
Examples
1. Examples - Hear some example sentences.
“You are not going to marry Prince Charming, keep your feet on the ground!”
“She knows it takes hard work to get into Harvard. She has her feet on the ground.”
“I don’t dream about being rich someday. My feet are firmly planted on the ground!”