AT SEA Meaning and
Definition
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At sea is a phrase that carries two primary meanings, depending on the context in which it is used. Primarily, it refers to being on the open waters, away from land and experiencing the vastness of the ocean. It pertains to the conditions and circumstances related to maritime travel, exploration, or voyages. When someone is at sea, they are typically aboard a ship or boat and have embarked on a journey across the waters. It signifies being in a state of mobility and uncertainty as the sea can be unpredictable and tumultuous at times.
However, "at sea" also possesses a figurative connotation that signifies a state of confusion, disorientation, or bewilderment. In this sense, it is used to describe someone or something that is lost or without direction, often metaphorically. For instance, a person may feel at sea when confronted with unfamiliar situations or when lacking guidance or information. It symbolizes a state of being adrift or out of place, not knowing how to navigate through a particular circumstance or challenge.
Overall, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense, being "at sea" evokes the sensation of being removed from one's familiar surroundings or comfort zone. This phrase captures the vastness, uncertainty, and sometimes overwhelming nature of both the physical ocean and the challenges of life.
Common Misspellings for AT SEA
- zt sea
- st sea
- wt sea
- qt sea
- ar sea
- af sea
- ag sea
- ay sea
- a6 sea
- a5 sea
- at aea
- at zea
- at xea
- at dea
- at eea
- at wea
- at swa
- at ssa
- at sda
Etymology of AT SEA
The phrase "at sea" is derived from the Old English word "sæ", meaning "sea" or "ocean". In Old English, "sæ" eventually developed into the Middle English word "see" or "se", which continued to carry the same meaning. Over time, "se" evolved into "sea" in modern English. The phrase "at sea" itself originated in the late 16th century and was used to describe something that is done or experienced on the sea, typically referring to the state or condition of being aboard a ship on the open sea.
Idioms with the word AT SEA
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be at sea
The idiom "be at sea" means to be confused, perplexed, or unsure about something. It often refers to a state of being lost or disoriented, not knowing how to proceed or understand a situation.
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all at sea
The idiom "all at sea" means to be confused, disoriented, or unsure about a situation or what to do. It refers to feeling like being lost or struggling to find direction, similar to being adrift in the open sea without any landmarks or clear paths.
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all, completely, etc. at sea
The idiom "all at sea" means to be completely confused or disoriented, lacking understanding or direction. It refers to a state of being lost or uncertain, like a person lost at sea who has no idea where they are or which way to go.
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(all) at sea (about something)
The idiom "(all) at sea (about something)" means to be confused, disoriented, or uncertain about something. It implies a lack of understanding or knowledge regarding a particular situation or topic. It can also suggest being unable to make a decision or feeling lost and struggling to find one's way in a given circumstance.
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(all) at sea (about sth)
The idiom "(all) at sea (about sth)" means to feel confused, bewildered, or uncertain about something. It implies a state of not understanding or being unsure about a particular situation, concept, or problem.
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at sea level
The idiom "at sea level" typically refers to being at the average height of the Earth's oceans. Metaphorically, it can also mean being at a standard or normal level, without any significant deviations or variations.
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burial at sea
The idiom "burial at sea" refers to the act of disposing a dead body in the ocean, typically through a formal ceremony. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is abandoned or discarded without any chance of retrieval or recovery.
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at sea
The idiom "at sea" means to be confused, bewildered, or unsure about a situation or what to do next. It can also refer to someone feeling lost or adrift.
Similar spelling words for AT SEA
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