The phrase "takes wind out" is an idiomatic expression used to convey the act of deflating someone's enthusiasm, confidence, or momentum, usually by an unexpected event or statement. It implies diminishing or destroying the energy, drive, or enthusiasm of someone or something.
When someone "takes wind out" of another person, they undermine their optimism or deflate their excitement by expressing a statement or action that takes away their confidence or hope. This figurative usage stems from the concept of a sailboat losing wind from its sails, causing it to slow down or come to a halt.
Additionally, "takes wind out" can also describe an action of abruptly interrupting or stopping a conversation, presentation, or argument by providing a comment or revelation that leaves the other person without further things to say or a clear direction to follow. In this sense, it stifles the flow of the conversation, leaving the person without the ability to continue confidently or effectively convey their message.
Overall, the phrase "takes wind out" denotes the act of diminishing, reducing, or halting someone's enthusiasm, momentum, or confidence, often causing them to lose their drive or motivation. It is an expression commonly used to describe the impact of a sudden event or statement that deflates someone's spirits or disrupts the course of a conversation or situation.
