take on water: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘take on water’ mean?
The idiom "take on water" means to accumulate problems or difficulties, often referring to a situation that is deteriorating or becoming unsustainable.
Idiom Explorer
"Take on the chin" means to bravely and stoically accept a difficult or unpleasant situation, especially when facing criticism, defeat, or adversity.
The idiom "take on faith" means to believe or accept something without evidence or proof.
It implies trusting someone or something blindly, without questioning or doubting.
It often applies to beliefs, ideas, or statements that are not easily verifiable.
The idiom "take on" means to assume responsibility or an undertaking. It can also mean to confront or challenge someone or something.
The idiom "take matters into one's own hands" means to personally handle or assume responsibility for a situation instead of relying on others to do so.
The idiom "take lightly" means to not take something seriously or to underestimate its importance or impact.
The idiom "take it upon oneself" means to assume responsibility or take on a task without being asked or obligated to do so.
The idiom "take its toll" means that something has a negative impact or effect on someone or something, usually resulting in damage, exhaustion, or loss. It implies that there are consequences or consequences to be paid for a particular action or situation.
The idiom "take ill" means to become sick or fall ill. It is commonly used to describe the act of experiencing a decline in health or catching an illness.
The idiom "take a turn for the worse" means that a situation or someone's condition has deteriorated or become more negative than before.
Unveiling the Maritime Metaphor
The idiom "take on water" is commonly used in American English to describe a situation where something is experiencing trouble or difficulties. Derived from nautical terminology, specifically referring to a ship or boat taking in water, the idiom symbolizes the accumulation of problems, obstacles, or challenges that may overwhelm an individual, an organization, or a situation. It implies a sense of vulnerability and impending disaster as the difficulties continue to mount.
The origin of the idiom can be traced back to the early days of sailing when ships relied on their ability to remain afloat for survival. If a ship were to take on water due to leaks, breaches, or rough seas, it would gradually become unstable and may eventually sink, putting the lives of everyone aboard in danger. The urgency and potential peril associated with this situation have been metaphorically applied to various contexts.
Today, "take on water" is often used in the business world to describe organizations or projects facing numerous challenges or financial troubles. For example, a company struggling with mounting debt and declining revenues might be said to be taking on water. Similarly, in personal contexts, individuals overwhelmed by an increasing workload, financial burdens, or relationship difficulties may also use the idiom to convey their sense of being inundated.
Furthermore, the idiom can also be used to describe situations involving a gradual decline. Unlike phrases such as "go down in flames" or "hit rock bottom," which connote a swift and dramatic downfall, "take on water" implies a slow and steady deterioration of circumstances.
The idiom "take on" is also related to "take on water." "Take on" means to assume or undertake a responsibility, task, or challenge. When used in the context of "take on water," it emphasizes the willingness or necessity to confront difficulties or obstacles. To "take on water" is to willingly or unwillingly face and deal with mounting problems or challenges. It embodies a sense of responsibility or duty in the face of adversity.
The idiom "deep water" is another related phrase. It means to be in a difficult or challenging situation, often beyond one's capabilities or knowledge. When combined with "take on water," the concept of being in deep water suggests a situation where problems or challenges are not only accumulating but also reaching a critical or dangerous point. It signifies being in over one's head and struggling to find a way out.
The idiom "take on water" is derived from nautical terminology and is commonly used in American English to describe a situation or individual experiencing incremental difficulties and challenges that may lead to significant problems or even failure. It carries a sense of vulnerability and impending disaster, symbolizing the gradual accumulation of obstacles and troubles that can overwhelm and sink a person or an organization. Through its metaphorical usage, this idiom effectively conveys the notion of gradual decline and the potential dangers associated with an uncontrollable influx of problems. It is also related to the idioms "take on" and "deep water," which further emphasize the willingness or necessity to confront difficulties and the challenging nature of the situation.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "take on water" can be used in a sentence:
- The ship hit an iceberg and started to take on water.
- Our team was losing the game, and we were struggling to keep up. It felt like we were taking on water.
- The company's financial situation was deteriorating, and it began to take on water, leading to layoffs.
More "Nautical" idioms
