Have you ever felt helpless and vulnerable, and needed someone to lean on? That’s when a shoulder to cry on comes to your rescue. In this article, we will explore the definition, meaning, and origin of this phrase, as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
A shoulder to cry on is a metaphorical expression that refers to a person who provides emotional support and comfort to someone who is going through a tough time. It means being there for someone when they need you the most, offering a listening ear, and offering a safe space to share their feelings.
Origin
The phrase “a shoulder to cry on” is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It was first used in a book called “The Red Badge of Courage” by Stephen Crane in 1895. The phrase gained popularity in the 1970s and has been used ever since.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a shoulder to cry on is “a person who provides comfort and support to someone who is upset or in distress.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “someone who listens sympathetically to another’s problems.”
Associations
A shoulder to cry on is associated with empathy, compassion, and kindness. It is also associated with trust, as the person seeking comfort must trust the person providing it. It is often associated with close friends or family members, but can also be someone outside of one’s inner circle.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of a shoulder to cry on include:
- Confidant.
- Support system.
- Rock.
- Comforter.
- Ally.
- Helper.
- Protector.
- Advocate.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of a shoulder to cry on include:
- Indifferent.
- Unsympathetic.
- Insensitive.
- Unsupportive.
- Unhelpful.
- Unreliable.
- Distant.
The same root words
The phrase “a shoulder to cry on” does not have any root words, as it is a metaphorical expression.
Example Sentences
- After her breakup, Jane needed a shoulder to cry on, and her best friend was there for her.
- When Tom lost his job, his wife was his shoulder to cry on.
- Mary was grateful to have her therapist as a shoulder to cry on during her difficult divorce.
In conclusion, a shoulder to cry on is a person who provides emotional support and comfort to someone who is going through a tough time. It is a metaphorical expression that has gained popularity in the last few decades. A shoulder to cry on is associated with empathy, compassion, and trust, and is often provided by close friends or family members. It is an essential part of the human experience, as we all need someone to lean on from time to time.