a different kettle of fish

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does a different kettle of fish mean? In what situations is a different kettle of fish used?

Meaning of "a different kettle of fish"

A totally different sitation from the one just mentioned

The phrase "a different kettle of fish" is a common English idiom that is used to describe a situation or person that is significantly different from another situation or person that has already been mentioned. The term is often used to emphasize that the two situations or people should not be compared or treated as if they are the same.

The origins of the phrase are uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in Scotland, where people used to cook different types of fish in separate pots, or "kettles", to prevent the flavors from mixing. The phrase reflects the idea that each type of fish is unique and requires its own pot, just as each situation or person is unique and requires its own approach.

The idiom is often used in situations where someone is trying to make a comparison between two things that are not comparable. For example, if someone were to say that a car and a bicycle are both modes of transportation, but a car is faster, someone else might respond by saying that it is "a different kettle of fish" because a bicycle is healthier and more environmentally friendly.

Here are some examples of how to use "a different kettle of fish" in a sentence

• "Working in a small family business is a different kettle of fish than working for a large corporation."
• "I thought I knew what to expect when I started my new job, but the reality was a different kettle of fish."
• "Going to college is a different kettle of fish than going to high school - the workload and expectations are much higher."
• "I love dogs, but taking care of a puppy is a different kettle of fish than taking care of an adult dog."
• "I thought I was prepared for the cold weather, but experiencing a Canadian winter was a different kettle of fish altogether."

In summary, "a different kettle of fish" is a common English idiom used to describe a situation or person that is significantly different from another situation or person that has already been mentioned. The term reflects the idea that each situation or person is unique and requires its own approach, just like each type of fish requires its own pot. The idiom is often used to emphasize that two things should not be compared or treated as if they are the same.

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.