Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

a different kettle of fish

Idiom

/ə ˈdɪfərənt ˈkɛtl əv fɪʃ/

Definition

An idiom referring to a situation or issue that is entirely different from what has been previously discussed or considered.

Examples

She was talking about her vacation; then she brought up work, which is a different kettle of fish.
When it comes to budgeting for the trip, that’s a different kettle of fish altogether.

Meaning

The phrase is used to indicate that something is distinct or separate from something else, especially in a comparison between two situations or topics.