English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Batten down the hatches
Meaning
The idiom "batten down the hatches" means to prepare for a difficult or dangerous situation by taking necessary precautions and being ready for whatever may happen. It is often used when one is about to face an uncertain event, such as a storm or a crisis.
Usage
- The team battened down the hatches before the big game, knowing that they had to be prepared for anything.
- With the pandemic spreading rapidly, people started battening down the hatches and stocking up on supplies.
- When she heard about her friend's job loss, Sarah immediately battened down the hatches and looked for ways to support him.
- The company had to batten down the hatches after the CEO resigned unexpectedly.
- As the storm approached, the sailors battened down the hatches and secured all loose items on board.
Roots and History
The idiom "batten down the hatches" originates from nautical terminology. In olden times, when ships were used for transportation and warfare, it was common to secure the hatch cover with ropes or wooden planks to protect it from the elements or enemy attacks. Over time, the phrase "batten down the hatches" has come to be used metaphorically in everyday language to describe any situation where one needs to prepare for danger or difficulty. The idiom's popularity increased during World War II when sailors had to protect their ships from enemy attacks and harsh weather conditions.
Synonyms in English
- Brace oneself for the storm
- Take cover for the impending danger
- Prepare for the worst-case scenario
- Gird one's loins for the upcoming challenge
- Fortify oneself against the approaching adversity
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "Preparar oneself para la prueba" (to prepare oneself for the exam)
- French: "Se tenir à l'abri du danger" (to take shelter from danger)
- German: "Bereit sein, sicherzustellen" (to be prepared to ensure safety)
- Italian: "Prendersi in salvo da un pericolo" (to save oneself from danger)
- Portuguese: "Empréstimo de segurança" (loan of security)