essere in alto mare
Siamo in alto mare con questo progetto, non sappiamo come uscirne.
We're in deep trouble with this project; we don't know how to get out of it.
to be in a very difficult or precarious situation, often with no clear solution
Dopo aver perso il contratto, l'azienda si è trovata in alto mare.
After losing the contract, the company was in deep trouble.
Con questi debiti, siamo davvero in alto mare.
With these debts, we're really in deep trouble.
Used to emphasize a situation where someone is overwhelmed by challenges or lacks a clear path forward.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Contextual Usage
Use 'essere in alto mare' when someone is facing a situation where they feel lost or overwhelmed, especially when there's no clear solution. It's stronger than 'essere in difficoltà' and implies a sense of being stranded.
Gold Rule
Avoid Literal Interpretation
This phrase is always used figuratively. Do not interpret it as a literal description of being at sea.
Word Origin
The phrase combines 'essere' (to be) with 'alto mare' (high sea). Literally, it means 'to be on the high sea,' where one is far from shore and vulnerable. The metaphorical use emerged in Italian to describe being in a perilous or uncertain situation, much like being lost at sea.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in informal contexts to express a sense of helplessness or being overwhelmed. It can refer to personal, professional, or financial difficulties.