At The Helm Meaning, Synonyms, Examples

The meaning of the idiom at the helm refers to being in charge or command of something. In other words, it is used to indicate the position of the person leading an organisation, a project, or a situation. For example, “She was confident with him at the helm of the new venture.”

This phrase was originally used as a nautical term in the early 1500s. Being “at the helm” of the ship meant that a person (usually the ship’s captain) was responsible for steering the boat or ship in the right direction. Gradually, this term began to be used in the professional world as well.

Also Read: Hand in Hand Meaning

Usage With Examples

Here’s how you can use the idiom “at the helm” correctly in a sentence:

1. He has been at the helm of the company for over a decade and has led it to success.
2. She is confident that she can handle any challenge with him at the helm of their relationship.
3. They are looking for a new director to take over the helm of the project.
4. He resigned from his position at the helm of the ministry after a scandal.
5. She has always been at the helm of her own destiny and never let anyone tell her what to do.

Also Read: 500+ Most Commonly Used Idioms in English: Meaning and Examples

At The Helm: Synonyms and Similar Words

Here are some words and phrases that have meaning similar to the idiom “at the helm”:

1. In charge
2. In command
3. In control
4. Directing
5. In the driving seat
6. In the saddle
7. At the wheel

Also Read: Break the News Meaning, Synonyms, Examples

At The Helm Meaning Quiz

Which of the sentences given below uses the idiom “at the helm” incorrectly?

A) She has been at the helm of the company for over a decade and has led it to success. 

B) He is confident that he can handle any challenge with her at the helm of their relationship. 

C) They are looking for a new director to take over the helm of the project. 

D) He resigned from his position at the helm of the ministry after a scandal.

The correct answer is B) He is confident that he can handle any challenge with her at the helm of their relationship.

We hope that you understood the idiom’s “at the helm” meaning, its usage in a sentence, and words and phrases having the same meaning through this blog. Keep following us to learn more idioms daily.