To "be one's tail" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of closely following or imitating someone, often with the intention of gaining their approval or favor. The phrase conveys the notion of being subservient, having one's actions dictated by another, or behaving like a loyal and faithful companion.
When someone is said to "be one's tail," they tend to adopt similar behaviors, opinions, or mannerisms as the person they are tailing. This could be driven by a desire to please, gain acceptance, or emulate a successful or influential figure.
The expression can be used metaphorically to describe individuals who lack originality or independent thinking and simply act as an extension or echo of someone else. It suggests a lack of individuality or autonomy, where a person follows another so closely that they seemingly have no mind or direction of their own.
The phrase can also imply a power dynamic, with the person being followed assuming a dominant role, and the one tailing them serving as a submissive follower. This can occur in various contexts, such as within friendships, work relationships, or even celebrity fan cultures.
Overall, "being one's tail" implies the act of closely imitating and adhering to someone else's actions or beliefs, often to an excessive degree, which may result in diminished personal identity and agency.
