Wet behind the ears Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Someone who is 'wet behind the ears' is inexperienced and new to a job, activity, or situation.
Usage & Nuances
Always informal; sometimes slightly condescending or teasing. Most often used to describe young people or newcomers. Can be used in any situation where someone lacks experience, but not for technical incompetence. Often in the format 'He's still wet behind the ears.'
Example Sentences
He is still wet behind the ears in this job.
basic
Sue was wet behind the ears when she started college.
basic
You can’t expect too much from someone who's wet behind the ears.
basic
When I first joined, I was totally wet behind the ears, too.
natural
Don't be so hard on her—she's still wet behind the ears.
natural
The new manager is a bit wet behind the ears, but he's learning fast.
natural