give somebody a leg-up

give (one) a leg up

1. To provide one with a physical lift or boost upward. I think I can reach the roof if you give me a leg up.
2. To provide one with support, encouragement, or an added advantage. Our after-school program is aimed to give students a leg up in any subject they are having difficulty with. I wouldn't have been able to afford college if I hadn't been given a leg up from my parents.
See also: give, leg, up
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

give somebody a ˈleg-up


1 (British English, informal) help somebody climb up or onto something, for example, a horse or a wall: I gave him a leg-up.
2 (informal) help somebody, usually by giving them money: His father gave him a leg-up when he was starting his business.
See also: give, somebody
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • give (one) a leg up
  • give someone a leg up
  • be there for (one)
  • be there for somebody
  • be there for someone
  • provide for (someone or something)
  • turn King's/Queen's evidence
  • emotional support animal
  • emotional support dog/cat/etc.
  • supply with