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Auf großem Fuß leben

To live in grand style and spend freely, often beyond one's means

In German

Auf großem Fuß leben

owf GROH-sem FOOS LEY-ben

Literal Translation

to live on a big foot

Meaning

To live in grand style and spend freely, often beyond one's means.

Equivalent:"To live large; to live the high life"

Origin:The exact origin is unclear; a popular explanation links it to the long pointed shoes of the late Middle Ages, whose length is said to have reflected the wearer's rank and wealth.

Example Sentences

1
Seit ihrer Beförderung lebt sie auf großem Fuß: teure Autos, Fernreisen, Designerkleidung.
Since her promotion, she has been living in grand style: expensive cars, long-haul trips, designer clothes.
2
Die Familie lebte jahrelang auf großem Fuß – bis die Schulden sie einholten.
The family lived large for years – until their debts caught up with them.

FAQ

How do you say "To live in grand style and spend freely, often beyond one's means" in German?

"To live in grand style and spend freely, often beyond one's means" in German is "Auf großem Fuß leben" (owf GROH-sem FOOS LEY-ben). Example: Seit ihrer Beförderung lebt sie auf großem Fuß: teure Autos, Fernreisen, Designerkleidung..

To have a hangover

Einen Kater haben

AY-nen KAH-ter HAH-ben

To get cold feet, to lose courage or confidence at the last minute

Kalte Füße bekommen

KAHL-te FY-se be-KOM-men

To sweat blood, to be extremely anxious or to work incredibly hard

Blut und Wasser schwitzen

BLOOT oont VAH-ser SHVIT-sen

To fly off the handle, to lose one's temper, to be extremely angry

Aus der Haut fahren

ows HOWT FAH-ren