on the wrong foot

English

Prepositional phrase

on the wrong foot

1. (especially in expressions such as 'start off on the wrong foot') In a state of misunderstanding or inadvertent poor relationship with someone.

   My relationship with my neighbours started off on the wrong foot, but we're very close now.

2. In a disadvantaged situation, or following a mistaken course of action.

   In this legal battle we were on the wrong foot from the start.

Antonyms

• on the right foot

See also

• wrong-foot
• start off on the wrong foot (translation hub)