What does “A Sitting Duck” mean?
"A Sitting Duck" means someone who is an easy target or vulnerable to attack.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Without any security measures, the house was like a sitting duck for burglars.
Example
The injured player was a sitting duck for the opposing team's defense.
Example
Leaving your car unlocked in a high-crime area is like being a sitting duck for thieves
Is “A Sitting Duck” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“A Sitting Duck” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “A Sitting Duck” effectively in context?
You can use "A Sitting Duck" to describe someone or something that is an easy target or vulnerable to attack. It emphasizes the lack of protection or defense. For example, if a friend leaves their bike unlocked on a busy street, you might say, 'You're just "a sitting duck" for thieves.'
- 1Home Security
Without any security measures, the house was like a sitting duck for burglars.
- 2Sports
The injured player was a sitting duck for the opposing team's defense.
- 3Car Theft
Leaving your car unlocked in a high-crime area is like being a sitting duck for thieves.
Similar phrases to “A Sitting Duck”:
Something that attracts attention or invites trouble
Example
Leaving your valuables on display in the car is like an open invitation for thieves.
Low-hanging fruit
An easy opportunity or target that requires little effort
Example
The inexperienced salesperson went after the low-hanging fruit to boost their confidence.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “A Sitting Duck” come from?
The origin of the phrase "A Sitting Duck" is unknown.
Is “A Sitting Duck” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "A Sitting Duck" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone or something is vulnerable and easily targeted.
What tone does “A Sitting Duck” have?
"A Sitting Duck" conveys a tone of vulnerability and lack of protection. It's often used to highlight the need for caution or the potential consequences of being unprepared.
Can “A Sitting Duck” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "A Sitting Duck" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of being an easy target. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Leaving your car unlocked in a high-crime area is like being "a sitting duck" for thieves.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't be "a sitting duck"!' to imply the need for caution.
