Babe in the woods Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A 'babe in the woods' is a person who is inexperienced, naive, or unaware of possible dangers or difficulties around them.
Usage & Nuances
This idiom is slightly formal and often sympathetic, suggesting innocence rather than foolishness. Commonly used to describe someone new in a challenging environment or naive in a complex situation. Not usually used for children, but for adults who are like children in experience. Collocations: 'like a babe in the woods', 'feel like a babe in the woods'.
Example Sentences
He was a babe in the woods when he started his first job.
basic
She felt like a babe in the woods in the big city.
basic
Without help, the tourists were babes in the woods.
basic
When it comes to taxes, I’m a total babe in the woods.
natural
You can tell she’s a babe in the woods in politics—she trusts everyone!
natural
Don’t worry, Alex—everyone is a babe in the woods at first.
natural