Idioms are phrases or expressions whose meanings are not directly derived from the literal definitions of the words within them. They often serve to illustrate deep insights about the human experience.
Idioms related to the sea would incorporate maritime language, nautical terms, and sea-related metaphors. A famous example is the idiom “all at sea”, which has been popular for centuries, as shown in the graph below. Interestingly, it was a particularly popular idiom in the early 20th Century. It’s also gaining in popularity again today:
Now let’s explore some more nautical idioms.
About the Author: Chris Drew has a PhD in Education. He has been a teacher in schools and universities and has taught English as a Second Language in Colombia. He is former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education.Idioms for the Sea
1. All at sea
Meaning: This idiom depicts a state of confusion or disorientation.
When to use: Utilize this expression when referencing scenarios that convey feelings of being lost or baffled.
In a sentence: “After reading the intricate report, he was all at sea, trying to decipher its implications.”
2. Sailing close to the wind
Meaning: Engaging in activities that are borderline legal or acceptable.
When to use: Use this idiom when describing risky or daring behaviors that teeter on the brink of acceptability.
In a sentence: “His questionable investment strategies were sailing close to the wind but yielded notable profits.”
3. Sail through something
Meaning: To complete something with ease and little effort.
When to use: Implement this idiom when illustrating a scenario that was managed with remarkable ease and skill.
In a sentence: “She managed to sail through the exam, securing the top score among her peers.”
See Also: Similes for the Sea
4. At a loose end
Meaning: Being in a state of idleness with nothing to do.
When to use: Use this expression when discussing boredom or having an excess of free time.
In a sentence: “During the summer holidays, he was often at a loose end, exploring various hobbies to pass the time.”
5. Go overboard
Meaning: To do something excessively or too enthusiastically.
When to use: Apply this idiom to contexts where actions or behaviors are executed with disproportionate zeal.
In a sentence: “She tends to go overboard with decorating during the holiday season, transforming her home into a festive wonderland.”
6. The tide is turning
Meaning: A change in circumstances or a shift in fortune.
When to use: Use this idiom when illustrating a notable change in conditions or situations.
In a sentence: “With the new policies being implemented, it seems the tide is turning in favor of renewable energy.”
See Also: Metaphors for the Sea
7. Between the devil and the deep blue sea
Meaning: Being stuck between two equally undesirable alternatives.
When to use: Deploy this idiom to describe scenarios that present two unfavorable options.
In a sentence: “He was between the devil and the deep blue sea, having to choose between two unappealing job offers.”
8. Take the wind out of someone’s sails
Meaning: To deflate someone’s confidence or enthusiasm.
When to use: Use this idiom when discussing the act of discouraging or demoralizing someone.
In a sentence: “The unexpected criticism took the wind out of her sails, making her reassess her strategy.”
9. Run a tight ship
Meaning: Managing a process or organization in an orderly and disciplined manner.
When to use: Use this idiom when describing efficient and strict management.
In a sentence: “The new manager runs a tight ship, ensuring all tasks are executed promptly and meticulously.”
10. Anchors aweigh
Meaning: To lift anchors in preparation for departure.
When to use: Use this expression when discussing the initiation of a journey or venture.
In a sentence: “Anchors aweigh, they commenced their adventurous journey across the vast ocean.”
11. A drop in the ocean
Meaning: A very small amount compared to what is needed.
When to use: Implement this idiom to represent something trivial or insignificant in a larger context.
In a sentence: “The donation, although generous, was just a drop in the ocean compared to what is needed.”
12. A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor
Meaning: Difficulties and challenges hone skills and abilities.
When to use: Employ this expression when discussing the significance of overcoming challenges for skill development.
In a sentence: “Despite the hurdles in his career, he persevered, believing that a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.”
13. Batten down the hatches
Meaning: Preparing for a crisis or a difficult situation.
When to use: Use this idiom when discussing preparatory actions in the face of imminent difficulties.
In a sentence: “Seeing the economic downturn, the company decided to batten down the hatches and reduce expenditures.”
14. A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for
Meaning: Safety and comfort often lead to stagnation; risk is essential for purpose and adventure.
When to use: Apply this idiom when encouraging risk-taking and adventurous endeavors.
In a sentence: “Despite the secure job, she chose to start her own business, believing that a ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for.”
15. Chart a course
Meaning: Planning a strategy or path to be followed.
When to use: Use this expression when discussing strategic planning and determination of a pathway.
In a sentence: “The team began to chart a course for the project, ensuring each phase was meticulously planned.”
16. Plain sailing
Meaning: Something that is easy and without obstacles.
When to use: Use this idiom when describing situations that are straightforward and free from difficulties.
In a sentence: “Once the initial issues were resolved, the rest of the project was plain sailing.”
17. Rock the boat
Meaning: To cause trouble or disrupt a stable situation.
When to use: Use this expression when someone instigates problems or instability within a settled scenario.
In a sentence: “He tends to rock the boat during meetings, challenging established procedures and norms.”
18. Three sheets to the wind
Meaning: Being drunk or inebriated.
When to use: Use this idiom when describing a person who is notably intoxicated.
In a sentence: “After celebrating at the pub, he was three sheets to the wind and could barely utter coherent words.”
Comprehension Worksheet
Question 1: What does the idiom “All at sea” imply about a person’s state?
A) Thorough understanding
B) Confusion or disorientation
C) Elation and joy
D) Indifference
Question 2: What is suggested by the idiom “Sail through something”?
A) To struggle through a process
B) To complete something with ease and little effort
C) To avoid engagement
D) To fail at something
Question 3: Which idiom indicates managing a process or organization efficiently and strictly?
A) Go overboard
B) Run a tight ship
C) Rock the boat
D) A drop in the ocean
Question 4: Which idiom describes being stuck between two undesirable options?
A) Chart a course
B) Between the devil and the deep blue sea
C) Anchors aweigh
D) Plain sailing