Be all at sea In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "be all at sea", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

author Mirabella Luu calendar 2020-12-22 01:12

Meaning of Be all at sea

Synonyms:

confused , bewildered

Be all at sea adjective phrase

The word "all" can be omitted.

Be confused about what to do

When my parents passed away since the accident, I was all at sea.

She felt all at sea about her career after graduating from university.

The literal meaning of this phrase is to sail on  the sea in a boat, ship or cruise.

The ship is at sea while the storm is blowing up.

Other phrases about:

like a rabbit (caught) in (the) headlights

Being so scared, confused, and astonished that you can't think or do anything.

can't think straight

To be unable to think clearly and correctly

In a quandary

Unsure or confused.

in a daze

Not able to focus on something or feel confused because of being shocked or surprised

mess with (one's) head

To cause someone to feel confused, worried, or upset

 

Origin of Be all at sea

All at sea – Kudelka Cartoons

Any ship that was out of sight of land was in an uncertain position and in danger of becoming lost.
Source: kudelka.com.au

This idiom is an extension of the nautical phrase 'at sea'. It dates from the days of sail when accurate navigational aids weren't available. Any ship that was out of sight of land was in an uncertain position and in danger of becoming lost. 'At sea' has been in use since the 18th century.

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have the devil's own luck

If a person has the devil's own luck, he or she has extremely good luck.

Example:

A: Yesterday I won a $10 million lottery jackpot and today I won a car in a draw. 
B: You have the devil's own luck.

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