fish out of water
Meaning
Someone who feels awkward, uncomfortable, or out of place in an unfamiliar situation.
Origin
From the literal image of a fish removed from water, struggling to survive; used figuratively from the 19th century to describe a person uncomfortable outside their usual environment.
Notes
Describes feeling out of place in a new environment. Common in speech and writing; mildly informal but broadly acceptable.
Examples
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When I started my new job in finance, I felt like a fish out of water.
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At the fancy gala, he was a fish out of water in his old sneakers.
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During my first week studying abroad, I was a fish out of water and missed home.
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Sheβs a brilliant scientist, but at small talk she looks like a fish out of water.
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Put me in front of a karaoke mic and Iβm a fish out of water.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as a noun phrase after a linking verb: βfeel like a fish out of water,β βbe a fish out of water.β Often takes the article βa.β
Synonyms
- out of place
- ill at ease
- uncomfortable
- like a square peg in a round hole
Antonyms
- in oneβs element
- feel at home
- fit in