when it’s at home: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘when it's at home’ mean?
The idiom "when it's at home" is used to express that someone struggles to explain or describe something in simple terms or lacks the knowledge or expertise in a particular subject.
Idiom Explorer
"When it comes to" is an idiom often used to introduce a topic or to indicate what someone is knowledgeable/experienced in. It implies the focus of discussion or expertise on a particular subject matter.
The idiom "what can I say" is used to express a feeling of helplessness or inability to find words in a situation. It often conveys resignation or the acknowledgement that there is nothing more to be said or done.
The idiom "unused to" is used to describe a situation where someone is not accustomed to or familiar with something. It implies a lack of experience or familiarity in a particular context or activity.
The idiom "unused to" is often used in the English language to describe a state of unfamiliarity or lack of experience with something. It conveys the idea that someone is not accustomed to a particular situation, circumstance, or thing.
The idiom "over one's head" means to be too difficult or complex for someone to understand or comprehend.
"Over one's head" is a commonly used phrase in English language with a figurative meaning. It describes a situation or concept that is too difficult or complex for someone to understand. The metaphorical connotation suggests that the subject matter is beyond the comprehension of the individual.
The idiom "out of one's element" means to be in a situation or place where one feels uncomfortable or is not able to perform as well as usual.
When someone is "out of their depth," it means they are in a situation that is too difficult or complex for them to handle or understand.
Out of one's depth is an idiomatic expression that has its roots in nautical terminology. It is often used metaphorically to describe a situation where a person is overwhelmed or lacking the necessary expertise or knowledge to deal with a task or challenge. This idiom implies a sense of being out of one's comfort zone.
The idiom "out of house and home" means to be completely destitute, having lost everything one possesses, especially due to financial hardships or being forced to leave one's home.
The idiom "nowhere to be found" means that someone or something cannot be located or is completely absent.
The idiom "not worth writing home about" means something is not impressive or noteworthy enough to share with others. It suggests a lack of excitement or satisfaction about a particular experience or event.
The idiom "make yourself at home" means to feel relaxed and comfortable in someone else's space, as if it were your own.
The Enigmatic Essence
When it's at home is a colloquial British English idiom that contrasts someone's behavior or appearance in a particular situation with their usual behavior or appearance. It suggests that someone is acting differently than expected based on their typical behavior.
This idiom is commonly used in phrases such as "X when he/she/it is at home" or "X, if that's not too much to ask, when he/she/it is at home." It is often used to comment on someone's behavior or skills in a specific role, implying that they are not living up to expectations or fully embodying that role.
The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it likely originated in the early 20th century, possibly in England. However, there is no definitive evidence to support this claim.
One possible explanation for the phrase's origin is its use to highlight the contrast between a person's public persona and their private self. The idiom suggests that a person's true character or abilities can only be seen or appreciated in their familiar or comfortable environment.
When it's at home is a versatile idiom that can be used in a wide range of contexts, often with humorous or ironic undertones. It is used in everyday conversations as well as in literature, film, and other forms of popular culture. Its usage adds a touch of playfulness or skepticism, allowing speakers to express doubts or reservations about someone's claimed abilities or behaviors.
Despite its uncertain origins, when it's at home has become a common phrase in British English to comment on someone's behavior or skills in a specific role. It adds a humorous or ironic tone to conversations and allows speakers to express skepticism or doubt about someone's abilities. While the exact meaning of the idiom may vary depending on the context, its underlying theme of contrasting someone's public persona with their private self remains consistent.
Home is a place where one feels comfortable and at ease. It is associated with familiarity, relaxation, and being oneself. The phrase "at home" is often used to describe a sense of comfort or ease in a particular place or situation. It can also imply a feeling of belonging or ownership.
For example, when someone says they are "at home" in a certain field or profession, they mean that they are highly knowledgeable or skilled in that area. This usage highlights their confidence and expertise in their chosen field.
Similarly, the idiom "home away from home" refers to a place or environment that is so familiar and comfortable that it feels like a second home. It is often used to describe a place where one feels welcomed, accepted, and at ease.
In the context of "when it's at home," the phrase "home away from home" can be used to emphasize the contrast between someone's behavior in their usual environment and their behavior in a different setting. It suggests that they may not be as comfortable or confident when they are out of their familiar surroundings.
The idiom "close to home" is used to describe something that is personally relatable or directly affects someone. It implies that something hits close to their heart or has a strong emotional impact on them.
In the context of "when it's at home," the phrase "close to home" can be used to highlight the contrast between someone's public behavior and their personal feelings or experiences. It suggests that their true emotions or reactions can only be seen when they are in a situation that personally affects them.
The phrase "from home" is often used to describe something that originates or is based in someone's home country. It implies a sense of familiarity and cultural connection.
In the context of "when it's at home," the phrase "from home" can be used to emphasize the contrast between someone's behavior in their home country or culture and their behavior in a different cultural setting. It suggests that they may struggle to fully adjust or adapt to a different cultural context.
The idiom "make oneself at home" is used to encourage someone to relax and feel comfortable in a particular setting. It implies a welcoming and hospitable atmosphere.
In the context of "when it's at home," the phrase "make oneself at home" can be used to suggest that someone is not fully embracing or taking advantage of the welcoming environment. It implies that they are not fully comfortable or confident in that particular setting.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "when it's at home" can be used in a sentence:
- She couldn't figure out what her colleague was saying because he was using such complex jargon. She thought to herself, "I don't even understand what he's talking about when it's at home."
- When the new computer arrived, Jack couldn't make heads or tails of its complicated setup instructions. He asked his friend, "Can you please explain to me how this thing works when it's at home?"
- During a heated debate, one of the politicians made a series of confusing statements. The opponent paused and asked, "Could you clarify your position on this matter when it's at home?"
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