in the drink
Food & drink · Filed under I
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "in one's cups" is related to the phrase "in the drink." It refers to being intoxicated or drunk, similar to the figurative meaning of "in the drink." When someone is "in one's cups," it means they have consumed a sufficient amount of alcohol to impair their judgment or behavior. This idiom is often used in a lighthearted or humorous manner to describe someone who is visibly drunk or acting foolishly due to their intoxicated state.
When someone finds themselves "in the drink" in a literal sense, it can often lead to getting into trouble. For example, if a person falls overboard from a boat and ends up in the water, they may be in a dangerous situation and need to be rescued. This literal interpretation of "in the drink" can serve as a reminder that accidents or unforeseen circumstances can arise, and it is important to exercise caution and be prepared for any potential trouble.
The idiom "in the drink" encompasses multiple meanings and connotations. It can refer to being submerged or immersed in water, facing difficulties or challenges, being under the influence of alcohol, and even getting into trouble. The versatility of this idiom highlights the richness and complexity of idiomatic language, as it can be interpreted in various contexts and evoke different emotions or situations. Whether used to describe a literal act of falling into water or to illustrate a metaphorical predicament, "in the drink" captures the essence of diverse experiences and the power of language to convey meaning.
Neighbouring idioms
- in one's cupsFood & drink
- get into troubleTrouble & conflict
- hot water
- deep water
- in the toilet
- fish in troubled watersTrouble & conflict
- in the wrong place at the wrong timeTrouble & conflict
- in too deep
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.