The phrase "are on one's tail" is an idiomatic expression commonly used to describe a situation where someone is persistently and closely pursuing or following another person. This phrase is often used metaphorically to refer to someone tracking, shadowing, or hounding another person either physically or metaphorically.
In a literal sense, being on someone's tail suggests following them from a close distance, typically in a vehicular context, such as when one car follows another closely on the road. This implies an intention to monitor or catch up with the person being tailed. It can also indicate a combative situation, where one person is actively pursuing another to engage in a physical confrontation or capture.
In a figurative sense, being on one's tail implies a relentless pursuit or constant monitoring of someone's actions, usually as a result of suspicion, curiosity, or a desire to closely observe their behavior. This phrase can be used in various contexts, such as in sports to describe one team aggressively chasing another, or in business scenarios when a competitor is closely watching and trying to imitate or outperform another company.
Overall, the term "are on one's tail" suggests a state of persistent pursuit or close observation, either physically or metaphorically, with an underlying sense of vigilance, determination, or aggressiveness.
