Some English Idioms about Sea And Ocean

British history is closely connected with sea exploration and sailing. Nowadays many sea idioms are still used in English in the sphere of business where a company is compared with the ship, and the market with the ocean or sea.

1. To be at sea

This English idiom means being confused or unable to decide what to do.

He feels at sea with economics. 

2. On course

This idiom means “following the intended route”.

We need to spend money to get the economy back on course. 

3. A drop in the ocean

That’s a very small amount compared with what is needed or expected.

The £550 million saving is likely to be a drop in the ocean. 

4. Rock the boat

If you rock the boat, you do or say something that will upset people or cause trouble.

Don’t rock the boat until the negotiations are finished.

5. Make waves

This English idiom means being very active so that other people notice you, often in a way that intentionally causes trouble.

If a member of the Cabinet started making waves, the prime minister simply got rid of them. 

6. A sea change

This idiom means complete change.

There will have to be a sea change in people’s attitudes if public transport is ever to replace the private car. 

7. To weather the storm

If someone or something weathers the storm, they successfully deal with a very difficult problem.

In the next few days we shall see if the ambassador can weather the political storm caused by his ill-advised remarks.

8. To know the ropes

If you know the ropes, you have expertise in your job.

Nobody knows the ropes like her.

9. Run a tight ship

This English idiom means being very strict in managing an organization or operation.

They make sure that no penny is wasted; they run a tight ship. 

10. All hands on deck

This expression is used to indicate that the involvement of all members of a team is required.

We’ve got three employees off sick this morning, so it’s all hands on deck.