like a fish out of water

be like a fish out of water

To feel uncomfortable in a new environment. When Carla transferred to a new school, she was like a fish out of water because she didn't know anyone there. Marie was like a fish out of water when she assumed a manger position at the company where she had worked as a clerk for so long. A: "My new job is OK, but I'm still like a fish out of water." B: "Well, it takes time to get used to something new."

See also: fish, like, of, out, water

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

like a fish out of water

Fig. appearing to be completely out of place; in a very awkward manner. Bob stood there in his rented tuxedo, looking like a fish out of water. Whenever I am with your friends, I feel like a fish out of water. What on earth do you see in them—or me?

See also: fish, like, of, out, water

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

like a fish out of water

Completely unfamiliar with one's surroundings or activity.

See also: fish, like, of, out, water

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.