What do you say when you are in really big trouble? Maybe you broke something expensive or messed up a deadline for an important project. Or maybe you failed an exam at school. Is there another expression you can use other than that you are in trouble? If you can’t come up with any, that’s fine. You will learn one in this article. Continue reading to learn the meaning and origin of “in deep water” which is an English idiom you can use in these kinds of situations.
English Idiom: In Deep Water
In Deep Water
We briefly told you that in deep water is another way to say that you are in trouble. But what exactly does it mean, and where did this expression come from?
Origin of In Deep Water
The expression comes from Psalm 69:14 in the Bible. It says, “… out of the deep waters.” This refers to someone in danger of drowning because the water is deep, but the person can’t swim.
If you are a good swimmer, you might think that deep water isn’t too bad. However, more than 320,000 people drown each year around the world. So, be careful, especially when swimming in deep water.
In Deep Water Meaning & Origin
In Deep Water Meaning
In deep water means to be in serious trouble.
Other Forms
Other forms of “in deep water” really depend on the sentence. You can say got/gets/getting into deep water. A similar expression is “in hot water.”
Examples of In Deep Water
Here are some examples using in deep water in a sentence:
- Tommy is now in deep water because he failed the final exam.
- He will get in deep water if he doesn’t buy roses for his wife on Valentine’s Day.
- I totally forgot about the assignment deadline. I’m in deep water.
In Deep Water Meaning and Examples
Other English Idioms and Expressions
Are you trying to improve your vocabulary and conversation skills? Then, check out these other English idioms and expressions. The more you know, the better you will be at having English conversations.
FAQs About In Deep Water
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the English idiom, in deep water.
What does being in deep water mean?
If someone is in deep water, it means that the person is in big trouble.
What is another word for in deep water?
Another expression that has a similar meaning as in deep water is “in hot water.” Also, you can say that you are in big trouble.
What are some example sentences of in deep water?
Here are some examples sentences using in deep water:
- If I mess up this test, I’m going to be in deep water.
- He’s in deep water because he got caught lying to his mom.
- If you don’t want to get in deep water, double-check the due dates.
In Deep Water: Join the Conversation
What are your thoughts on this English expression, in deep water? Have you ever had the experience of getting in deep water? Try making a sentence using this idiom, so you can memorize the new expression you learned today more easily. If there is another English idiom that you want to learn, let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.
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