Duck to water: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Duck to water” mean?

"Duck to water" means to quickly and easily adapt to a new situation or skill.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He took to playing the piano like a duck to water.

Example

After a few lessons, she was swimming like a duck to water.

Example

The new employee fit in with the team right away, like a duck to water

Is “Duck to water” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Duck to water” 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 “Duck to water” effectively in context?

You can use "Duck to Water" to describe someone who quickly and easily adapts to a new situation or skill. It emphasizes how effortlessly and naturally they are able to learn or adjust. For example, if a friend starts playing a musical instrument and picks it up quickly, you might say, 'He took to playing the piano like a duck to water.'

• 1. Learning a New Skill

  After a few lessons, she was swimming like a duck to water.

• 2. Fitting into a New Environment

  The new employee fit in with the team right away, like a duck to water.

• 3. Adapting to Change

  When they moved to a new city, the children adjusted to their new school like ducks to water.

Similar phrases to “Duck to water”:

Pick up something quickly

To learn or acquire a new skill or knowledge rapidly

Example

She picked up the guitar quickly and started playing songs within a week.

Take to something like a fish to water

To quickly and easily adapt to a new situation or skill

Example

He took to public speaking like a fish to water and delivered an excellent presentation.

Naturally talented

Having an innate ability or skill

Example

She is naturally talented in drawing and creates beautiful artwork effortlessly.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Duck to water” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Duck to Water" is unknown.

Is “Duck to water” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Duck to Water" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone's ability to adapt quickly and easily to new situations or skills.

What tone does “Duck to water” have?

"Duck to Water" conveys a tone of natural talent and ease. It suggests that the person being described has a natural affinity for the new situation or skill and is able to navigate it effortlessly.

Can “Duck to water” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Duck to Water" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts. 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 is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She took to the new job like a duck to water.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's a natural at it, like a "duck to water"!' to imply someone's quick adaptation to a new skill or situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• quick learner
• natural talent
• adapt easily
• fast grasp
• effortless transition

Antonyms

• struggle with
• have difficulty adapting
• slow learner
• resist change