Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

out-of-one's-depth

idiom
/ˈaʊt əv wʌnz dɛpθ/
Definition
In a situation where someone lacks the necessary skills or knowledge to handle it effectively.
Examples
  • He felt out of his depth during the advanced mathematics class.
  • When she started her new job, she quickly realized she was out of her depth in the technical discussions.
  • Trying to fix the car without any mechanical knowledge left him completely out of his depth.
Meaning
The phrase refers to a state of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with a situation due to insufficient understanding or expertise.
Synonyms
  • overwhelmed
  • in over one’s head
  • beyond one’s capabilities