What does the idiom "plenty more fish in the sea" mean?
You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase plenty more fish in the sea, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression plenty more fish in the sea used and what is its meaning?
Meaning of "plenty more fish in the sea"
Meaning
The English idiom "plenty more fish in the sea" means that there is always hope; potential that things can and will get better. It implies that just because one opportunity or person is not available, or has not worked out, there are many other potential opportunities or people out there. The idiom is meant to encourage optimism and perseverance in the face of hardship or despair.
Etymology
The idiom “plenty more fish in the sea” likely originated from Europe in the late 16th century as a metaphor for the seemingly infinite supplies of fish in the ocean. It is uncertain who first coined the phrase, though records of the phrase began to appear sporadically in the English language in the early 19th century. By the late 19th century, the phrase had become commonly used in the English language, particularly in the UK, to describe a variety of situations where there are many, seemingly unlimited options available.
Usage
The idiom “plenty more fish in the sea” is most often used in a romantic context, when one is trying to encourage a friend or a significant other who has just gone through a failed relationship. It is also commonly used in the workplace, to remind an employee that there are many other potential opportunities out there, even if a particular job or project did not turn out as expected.
It can also be used in a variety of other contexts where there are an abundance of options or opportunities available. For example, it might be used by a parent to remind a child that there are many other potential hobbies or activities to try even if a particular one does not work out. It is a phrase used to encourage optimism and perseverance, and to remind people that there is always hope.
Example Sentences
- “Don't worry, there are plenty more fish in the sea. You'll find someone who's right for you.”
- “Don't worry about not getting that job. There are plenty more fish in the sea.”
- “If that hobby didn't work out, don't worry, there are plenty more
Idioms have a common language
"The early bird catches the worm" is an English idiom that means that those who wake up early and start their day early are more likely to succeed. A similar idiom in Spanish is "El que madruga, Dios le ayuda," which translates to "God helps those who rise early." This idiom emphasizes the importance of starting the day early in order to achieve success.
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