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Cool your heels

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LampPro Tip 1/3
Patience ImplicationPlay
Suggests the person is patiently enduring the wait, often with no control over the timing. SlideThe flight was delayed, so passengers had to cool their heels in the lounge.
LampPro Tip 2/3
Potentially UnpleasantPlay
Used when the wait might be frustrating or longer than expected. SlideThe interviewees cooled their heels for hours as the team deliberated.
LampPro Tip 3/3
Not LiteralPlay
The phrase is figurative; it doesn't involve actual cooling of the heels. SlideAfter submitting her application, she had to cool her heels for weeks.