Water
A fish out of water
Meaning
Someone in an unfamiliar circumstance.
Examples
He’s a fine golfer but in this dance competition he’s a fish out of water.
Where did it originate?
The United Kingdom – 17th century.
Where is it used?
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Adam’s ale
Meaning
A reference to water – often used to emphasize the purity of water compared to other drinks.
Examples
I didn’t want a beer when I finished the marathon – Adam’s ale was all I needed.
Where did it originate?
The United Kingdom, 17th century.
Where is it used?
Worldwide, but most common in the UK.
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Big fish in a small pond
Meaning
An important person but only so within a small area of influence.
Examples
Alison is the queen of the post room. She’s a big fish in a small pond though – no one in the rest of the company knows who she is.
Where did it originate?
USA, late 19th century.
Where is it used?
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Blood is thicker than water
Meaning
Family loyalties are stronger than those to other people.
Examples
It was just me and his son in the job interview. I had no chance, blood is thicker than water you know.
Where did it originate?
Britain. Probably coined by Sir Walter Scott, 1815.
Where is it used?
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Come hell or high water
Meaning
Despite any great difficult or obstacle.
Examples
I’m going to get to Cornwall by nightfall, come hell or high water.
Where did it originate?
USA, late 19th century.
Where is it used?
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Little fish in a big pond
Meaning
Someone considered unimportant compared to their more significant peers.
Examples
Jimmy’s first school only had seven pupils and he was the star, but when he got to high-school he was a little fish in a big pond.
Where did it originate?
USA, early 20th century.
Where is it used?
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Water under the bridge
Meaning
A past experience that you prefer not to affect your current life.
Examples
Losing my wife and my job was difficult at the time but I’ve moved on. Its all water under the bridge now.
Where is it used?
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You can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink
Meaning
You can encourage someone to to do something but, in the end, what they do is their own choice.
Examples
I bought her a car; I even paid for the driving lessons, but she still travels everywhere by bus.
Where did it originate?
Britain, 12th century. One of the oldest proverbs in the English language
Where is it used?
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