1. All hands on deck
This idiom means that everyone is needed to help or contribute to a task. It originates from the maritime practice of requiring all crew members to be on the deck during certain situations.
2. Smooth sailing
When things are going well without any problems, we say it’s ‘smooth sailing’. It refers to calm and easy navigation on the water, without any obstacles or storms.
3. On the same boat
If two or more people are ‘on the same boat’, it means they are in the same situation or facing the same challenges. It reflects the shared experience of being on a boat together.
4. Shipshape and Bristol fashion
This phrase means that something is in perfect order and well-organized. It originated from the high standards of tidiness and efficiency required on ships in the port of Bristol, England.
5. Anchors aweigh
This phrase is used when a ship’s anchor is lifted off the sea floor, and the ship is ready to set sail. It symbolizes the beginning of a journey or a new adventure.
6. Three sheets to the wind
When someone is ‘three sheets to the wind’, it means they are heavily intoxicated. It comes from the nautical term ‘sheet’, which refers to the ropes that control the sails.
7. Batten down the hatches
This idiom means to prepare for a difficult or challenging situation. In the maritime context, it refers to securing the hatches (openings) on a ship to prevent water from entering during a storm.
8. Show someone the ropes
To ‘show someone the ropes’ means to teach or guide them on how to do something. It originates from the practice of teaching new sailors the various ropes and their functions on a ship.
9. Full steam ahead
When we say ‘full steam ahead’, it means to proceed or move forward with full speed and determination. It comes from the steam-powered ships, where ‘full steam’ indicated maximum power.
