it’s five o’clock somewhere: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘it's five o'clock somewhere’ mean?
The idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere" means that it is acceptable to drink at any time of the day since there is always a location around the world where it is currently five o'clock and a socially acceptable time to consume alcohol.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "it's about time" is used to express that something should have happened sooner or that someone is overdue for a certain action or event.
The idiom "in the right place at the right time" means being present at the perfect moment or location to take advantage of an opportunity or a fortunate event.
The idiom "in one's cups" refers to being drunk or intoxicated. It implies that someone has consumed so much alcohol that they are influenced or affected by it. The phrase is often used to describe someone who is behaving differently or experiencing the effects of excessive drinking.
The idiom *hold one's liquor* means to be able to consume alcohol in large quantities without becoming drunk or losing control.
The idiom "hold one's drink" means to have the ability to consume alcohol without the negative effects of becoming drunk or losing control. It implies someone's tolerance for alcohol and is often used to describe someone who can handle a large amount of alcohol without getting intoxicated.
The idiom "hold one's alcohol" means to be able to drink without becoming intoxicated or showing the effects of alcohol excessively. It implies having a high tolerance for alcohol.
The idiom "high time" means that something should have happened or should be done immediately, as it is already late or long overdue.
The idiom "high time" is a commonly used phrase in American English. It indicates that something should have happened or been done already because it is long overdue. The phrase expresses a sense of urgency or necessity.
The idiom "here, there and everywhere" means to be present or found in many different places or situations, often with little focus or purpose.
The idiom "good drunk" refers to someone who is pleasant and enjoyable to be around when they are intoxicated.
The idiom "good drunk," often used in American English, refers to someone who is intoxicated in a positive or enjoyable way. Unlike the negative connotations associated with excessive alcohol consumption, this idiom highlights the idea of drunkenness as a desirable state.
Deciphering the Enigma
The idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere" is a commonly used phrase in American English that embodies the ideas of relaxation, indulgence, and letting go of responsibilities. It is often used to justify or express the idea that it is acceptable to start drinking alcohol at any time of the day. The phrase is a variation of the more familiar expression "it's five o'clock," but with the added twist that somewhere in the world, it is always five o'clock and therefore an appropriate time to indulge in a drink.
While the origins of this idiom are unclear, it is commonly attributed to the popular song "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere" by Alan Jackson and Jimmy Buffett, released in 2003. The song's lyrics suggest that time zones allow for the possibility of it being five o'clock in some part of the world, thereby justifying the act of drinking regardless of the actual time. This creative interpretation of time zones and the concept of an acceptable hour for drinking has since been embraced by many.
The idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere" has become deeply ingrained in American vernacular, permeating casual conversations, social gatherings, and even popular culture. It has emerged as a lighthearted and humorous way to emphasize the importance of relaxation, indulgence, and breaking away from the constraints of everyday life.
One of the related idioms that naturally connects with "it's five o'clock somewhere" is "at all hours." This phrase conveys the idea that something is happening or available at any given time, without any specific time limitations. In the context of the idiom, it implies that the enjoyment of a drink is not restricted to a particular time of day, but can occur "at all hours."
Similarly, the idiomatic expression "drinking hole" relates to the concept of a place where individuals gather to consume alcoholic beverages. It suggests a sense of camaraderie and conviviality, as people come together in a designated location to enjoy a drink. The idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere" captures the essence of this idea, as it encourages individuals to embrace the notion that there is always a "drinking hole" somewhere in the world.
In addition to the notion of a specific location for drinking, the phrase "here, there and everywhere" resonates with the idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere." While the original expression speaks to the flexibility of time, "here, there and everywhere" emphasizes the presence and accessibility of opportunities for enjoying a drink. It implies that the act of drinking can occur anywhere, without being confined to a specific place or time.
Expanding on the idea of time flexibility, the phrase "at any given moment" links with "it's five o'clock somewhere" to suggest that the enjoyment of a drink is not limited to a predetermined timeframe. "At any given moment" captures the idea that an opportunity to indulge in a drink can arise unexpectedly, regardless of the conventional expectations or societal norms.
Finally, the idiomatic expression "around the clock" parallels the idea conveyed by "it's five o'clock somewhere." It signifies the continuous and uninterrupted nature of an activity or situation. While "around the clock" is often associated with actions that require constant attention or effort, such as working or monitoring a situation, when applied to the idiom, it emphasizes the idea that the availability of the enjoyment of a drink transcends time limitations and can be pursued at any hour of the day.
The idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere" has become a cultural phenomenon in American English, representing the ideas of relaxation, indulgence, and letting go of societal expectations. It has gained widespread usage and has made its way into everyday conversations, social gatherings, and popular culture. With its links to related idioms like "at all hours," "drinking hole," "here, there and everywhere," "at any given moment," and "around the clock," this idiom captures the universal desire for liberation and the innate inclination to seek pleasure and escape from the constraints of time and convention.
Example usage
Examples of the idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere" being used in a sentence:
- "I know it's a bit early to have a drink, but hey, it's five o'clock somewhere!"
- "I can't believe you're going to start celebrating already, it's only 4 PM!" "Well, it's five o'clock somewhere!"
- "I don't usually drink during the day, but today is a special occasion. After all, it's five o'clock somewhere!"
The idiom "it's five o'clock somewhere" is often used to justify or humorously excuse the act of consuming alcoholic beverages at a time that may be considered early or inappropriate by societal standards. It implies that someone, somewhere in the world, would consider it an appropriate time to enjoy a drink. It's used to playfully suggest that time is relative and that it's acceptable to indulge in certain activities, like drinking, regardless of the local time.
More "Time" idioms
