Like a fish out of water Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Used to describe someone who feels uncomfortable or out of place in a situation that is new or unfamiliar to them.
Usage & Nuances
This idiom is informal, often used to describe social discomfort. Used mostly for people, not things. Common with verbs like 'feel' or 'look' (e.g., 'He looked like a fish out of water'). Similar meaning to 'out of place.'
Example Sentences
When I moved to a new school, I felt like a fish out of water.
basic
She looks like a fish out of water at fancy parties.
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He was like a fish out of water during his first English class.
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I don’t really know anyone here, so I’m like a fish out of water.
natural
Put me in a kitchen and I'm like a fish out of water—I can't cook at all!
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He’s great with numbers, but when it comes to art projects, he’s like a fish out of water.
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