plenty of fish in the sea
Meaning
There are many other possible partners/opportunities, so don’t worry about one rejection or breakup.
Origin
From the long-standing metaphor of the sea being full of fish; used to comfort someone about dating by suggesting many alternatives. Recorded in English in the 19th century and popularized in modern dating advice.
Notes
Usually a casual, comforting line after a breakup/rejection (often romantic). Can sound dismissive if the person is very upset; tone matters.
Examples
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I know the breakup hurts, but there are plenty of fish in the sea.
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If that job offer falls through, remember there are plenty of fish in the sea.
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She was disappointed after the first date, but her friends reminded her there are plenty of fish in the sea.
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Don’t chase someone who doesn’t respect you—there are plenty of fish in the sea.
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He thought he’d never meet anyone else, yet he eventually realized there were plenty of fish in the sea.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Often used as “There are plenty of fish in the sea.” Articles and plural are fixed (“plenty of fish”); can be adapted metaphorically (“plenty of X out there”), but the classic form is set.
Synonyms
- there are plenty more where that came from
- there are other fish in the sea
- there are plenty of options
- there are lots of other people out there
Antonyms
- there’s no one else
- one of a kind
- hard to come by