How Do You Spell RIDING COATTAILS?

1. Riding coattails refers to the act or practice of benefiting or gaining an advantage from the achievements, success, or popularity of someone else without having contributed much or any effort or value to earn such benefits. The term originates from the idea of figuratively holding onto or attaching oneself to the coattails of another person, usually a prominent or influential figure, and using their position or accomplishments for personal gain.

   In a political context, riding coattails often refers to lesser-known or less experienced candidates or politicians benefitting from the popularity or support of a more influential or widely recognized individual within the same party. Such individuals might gain votes or win elections simply due to their association with the more renowned figure, rather than their own qualifications or achievements.

   In a business or professional sense, riding coattails can also describe individuals who leverage the reputation, networks, or accomplishments of others to advance their own careers or obtain opportunities. This can involve aligning oneself with successful colleagues or superiors to make one's achievements appear more significant or to receive recognition or promotions that may not be entirely deserved.

   Overall, riding coattails carries a somewhat negative connotation, as it suggests the opportunistically capitalizing on someone else's resources, reputation, or accomplishments rather than earning those benefits through personal endeavor or merit.

Common Misspellings for RIDING COATTAILS

The phrase "riding coattails" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the early 19th century. It is derived from the practice of literally riding on the coattails of a person while walking or riding a horse. In this literal sense, it refers to someone hitching a ride by holding onto another person's coat.

Over time, the phrase developed a figurative meaning, which is the most commonly used today. It refers to a person benefiting or achieving success by associating themselves with someone more successful. The imagery suggests that the person riding the coattails is taking advantage of the success or popularity of another person to elevate themselves.

The term gained popularity in politics, particularly during the 20th century. It came to describe a candidate or a politician who tries to take advantage of the popularity or success of a more accomplished person from the same party or affiliation.