On the rocks

Meaning

The idiom "on the rocks" has multiple meanings in contemporary language, but its origin dates back to the 19th century. The literal meaning of the idiom refers to a ship or boat that is in danger of sinking due to rough seas or other navigational hazards. However, the figurative meaning of the idiom is used to describe someone who is facing difficulty or trouble.

The literal meaning of "on the rocks" refers to a ship or boat that is in danger of sinking due to rough seas or other navigational hazards. However, the figurative meaning of the idiom is used to describe someone who is facing difficulty or trouble.

Usage

• The company's stock price took a hit, and they were on the rocks for several months before turning things around.
• The couple's relationship had been going well, but then they started arguing over money, and it put them on the rocks.
• After being fired from his job, John was struggling to make ends meet and felt like he was on the rocks.
• When I heard the news about the earthquake, I knew that people's lives were in danger and that they were on the rocks.
• The company's new product launch was a disaster, and it put them on the brink of bankruptcy.

Roots and History

The idiom "on the rocks" dates back to the 19th century when ships navigating through rough seas would often hit rocks or other navigational hazards, putting them in danger of sinking. Over time, the idiom evolved to describe someone who is facing difficulty or trouble. The first known use of the idiom was recorded in 1827 by Samuel Johnson in his Dictionary of English.

Synonyms in English

• In deep water
• At a crossroads
• Up against it
• Against the wall
• In tough shape

Synonyms in other languages

• French: De l'eau profonde
• Spanish: En el mar profundo
• German: In der Tiefe des Meeres
• Italian: Nell'acqua profonda
• Russian: В глубине океана

Similar Idioms

• on the case

• on the blink

• love rat