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The phrase “out of one’s depth” originates from nautical language, dating back to the 16th century. It was first used in the literal sense to describe a person in water that was too deep for them to stand or swim safely—beyond the point where they could touch the bottom.

Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphor for being in a situation that is too complex, difficult, or unfamiliar to manage—just like a swimmer who cannot stay afloat in deep water.

Historical notes:

The Oxford English Dictionary records usages of “out of one’s depth” as early as 1600s.

William Shakespeare used similar imagery in his plays, often referring to characters being "in deep waters" or "drowned" by overwhelming circumstances.

Figurative usage today:

Now, it's widely used in professional, academic, and everyday contexts—especially when someone feels overwhelmed or unqualified, for instance:

“She was out of her depth during the board meeting filled with legal jargon.”

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Also, in the spotlight . At the center of public attention or notoriety. For example, John loves being in the limelight , or The reporters made sure the attractive new actress would be in the spotlight . Both terms come from the theater and allude to focusing light on an important person, the first from a lighting device used from about 1840 on, the second from the early 1900s.

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In a difficult, awkward, or vulnerable position, as in I lodged a complaint about low salaries, but the people who had supported me left me out on a limb . This expression alludes to an animal climbing out on the limb of a tree and then being afraid or unable to retreat. First time used in the late 1800s.

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In an environment naturally suited to or associated with one; doing what one enjoys. For example, He's in his element when he's doing woodworking . This term alludes to one's natural abode, as does the antonym, out of one's element. Used by Daniel Defoe in Robinson Crusoe , 1719: “When they came to make boards ... they were quite out of their element”.

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In the near or immediate future; soon to come. For example, Jan was delighted that exams were finished and graduation was in the offing . This expression originally meant “in the part of the ocean visible between shore and horizon”; its figurative use dates from the late 1700s.

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If someone's actions are in character, they are doing what you would expect them to do, knowing what kind of person they are. If their actions are out of character, they are not doing what you would expect them to do.For example: It was entirely in character for Rachel to put her baby first. What else could make him behave so out of character?

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In accordance with or conforming to something, especially what is considered correct, acceptable, etc. For example: The senator is often criticized for not being in step with the mainstream views of the party, but that's why her fans love her.

Following or maintaining the proper rhythm (along with someone or something). For example: I've never seen someone so uncoordinated! That guy couldn't be in step with the music if he tried.

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If someone or something is in favor, people like or support them. If they are out of favor, people no longer like or support them. For example Governments and party leaders can only hope to remain in favor with the public for so long.

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This is an example of how it can be used to exaggerate the lack of knowledge in something.

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Adjective

Meaning: Recognized for one's experience and history in a particular field

Synonyms

established, well known, iconic, recognised(UK), recognized(US), acclaimed, esteemed, prominent, respected, acknowledged, high profile, famous, premier, renowned, respectable, distinguished, familiar, illustrious, accomplished, celebrated, eminent, influential.

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What's the origin of the phrase ' out on a limb'?

The limb being talked about here is the branch of a tree and ‘out on a limb’ is an allusion to climbing trees and going just a bit further than is comfortable.

All of us must remember that feeling of not wanting to go further out to reach that apple/ball or whatever for fear that the branch (limb) would break under us.

The first uses of ‘out on a limb’ in a figurative sense, that is, one where there is no reference to actual trees or climbing, come from the USA at the end of the 19th century.

An example of an early use of the phrase is found in the Steubenville Daily Herald, October 1895:

“We can carry the legislature like hanging out a washing. The heft [main part] of the fight will be in Hamilton country. If we get the 14 votes of Hamilton we’ve got ’em out on a limb. All we’ve got to do then is shake it or saw it off.”

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✅ Correct : "In step with"
🟰 Meaning: In harmony or agreement.

"The policy is in step with global standards."

✅ Also: "Out of step with"
🟰 Meaning: Not in agreement or alignment (usually with people or ideas).

"His views were out of step with the rest of the team."

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Focus Groups Fall Out of Favor

Technology-driven tools do a better job of explaining consumer behavior today

Houston Texans Weapon Already Falling out of Favor?

This Houston Texans playmaker seems to be on thin ice heading into the 2025 NFL season.

State officials come out in favor of Senate debanking bill

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What is the origin of the idiom "in one's element" and when to use it?

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What is the origin of the idiom "in one's element" and when to use it?

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The phrase "in one's element" originated from ancient Greek beliefs about the four classical elements and refers to being in an environment that aligns with one's inherent nature or temperament. This idiom can be used in professional settings, such as when a musician is performing flawlessly on stage or when an athlete is excelling in their chosen sport. It can also be used in personal contexts, such as when someone is engaged in a hobby or a passion that brings them great joy and fulfillment.

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The phrase “in the offing” means “going to happen soon”.

The phrase dates to the early 17th century, when it referred to looking out for a ship from the shore. The “offing” was the part of the sea that could be seen from land (excluding parts that were very close to the shore). Lookouts would watch for ships that were “in the offing”, meaning they were known to be nearby and expected to arrive in harbour soon.

This sense of waiting for an incoming ship was then extended to cover any imminent event.

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Moving abroad sounded exciting, but once he arrived, he felt out of his depth dealing with the cultural differences and paperwork.

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After winning the national competition, she found herself in the limelight for the first time.

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She went out on a limb by defending her unpopular opinion during the meeting.

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She realized her fashion choices were out of step with current trends.

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It was completely out of character for him to raise his voice during the meeting.

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Classical music never truly goes out of favour, although trends often shift toward modern genres.

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During the science fair, she was in her element explaining her project to the judges.

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A new product launch is in the offing, but the details haven’t been revealed yet.

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Meaning: To be in a situation that is too difficult to handle or beyond one’s knowledge or experience.
Usage: Common in academic, professional, or emotional contexts.
Pronunciation: /aʊt əv wʌnz dɛpθ/
Example:

When I started working in finance, I felt completely out of my depth.
Song: “Out of My Depth” – Nine Inch Nails

"I was up above it, now I'm down in it."

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Meaning: To be the center of public attention or fame.
Usage: Often used to describe celebrities or public figures.
Pronunciation: /ɪn ðə ˈlaɪmlaɪt/
Example:

She enjoys being in the limelight and thrives on attention.
Song: “Limelight” – Rush

“Living in the limelight, the universal dream for those who wish to seem.”

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3. Out on a limb
Meaning: To take a risk, especially by stating an opinion or taking action that is not popular or widely supported.
Usage: Often used in both personal and professional contexts.
Pronunciation: /aʊt ɒn ə lɪm/
Example:

He went out on a limb by defending a very controversial idea.
Song: “Out on a Limb” – Teena Marie

“I’m out on a limb, I’m giving in to you again.”

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4. In step with
Meaning: To be aligned or in harmony with someone or something, such as trends, ideas, or people.
Usage: Frequently used in cultural, social, or business contexts.
Pronunciation: /ɪn stɛp wɪð/
Example:

The company is in step with the latest environmental standards.
Song (thematic): “Step in Time” – from Mary Poppins

“Step in time, step in time, never need a reason, never need a rhyme.”

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5. Out of character
Meaning: To behave in a way that is unusual or not typical for a person.
Usage: Common when someone acts unexpectedly.
Pronunciation: /aʊt əv ˈkærɪktər/
Example:

It was out of character for her to miss the meeting without notice.
Song: “Out of Character” – Decyfer Down

“This isn’t who I am, I’m out of character.”