What does “Like a fish needs a bicycle” mean?
"Like a fish needs a bicycle" means that something is not necessary or not needed.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I can live without that, like a fish needs a bicycle.
Example
Having a fancy car is like a fish needing a bicycle.
Example
I don't need your help, like a fish needs a bicycle
Is “Like a fish needs a bicycle” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Like a fish needs a bicycle” 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 “Like a fish needs a bicycle” effectively in context?
You can use "Like a fish needs a bicycle" to express that something is not necessary or not needed. It is often used in a humorous or sarcastic way to emphasize the lack of importance or relevance. For example, if someone offers you unnecessary assistance, you might respond with 'I don't need your help, like a fish needs a bicycle.'
- 1Rejecting Unwanted Advice
When her friend suggested she should change her hairstyle, she replied, 'I'm happy with my hair, like a fish needs a bicycle.'
- 2Declining Unnecessary Items
When offered a second dessert after a large meal, he declined, saying, 'I'm full, like a fish needs a bicycle.'
- 3Asserting Independence
When her parents insisted on accompanying her to a social event, she firmly stated, 'I can handle it on my own, like a fish needs a bicycle.'
Similar phrases to “Like a fish needs a bicycle”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Like a fish needs a bicycle” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Like a fish needs a bicycle" is attributed to Irina Dunn, an Australian feminist and writer. In the 1970s, she popularized the phrase as a feminist slogan, flipping the traditional saying 'A woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle' to challenge gender stereotypes and advocate for women's independence.
Is “Like a fish needs a bicycle” common in everyday conversation?
"Like a fish needs a bicycle" is not as common as some other expressions, but it is still recognizable to many English speakers. It is often used in informal conversations, especially in contexts where humor or sarcasm is appropriate.
What tone does “Like a fish needs a bicycle” have?
"Like a fish needs a bicycle" conveys a tone of humor and sarcasm. It is typically used in a lighthearted manner to playfully dismiss the importance or necessity of something.
Can “Like a fish needs a bicycle” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Like a fish needs a bicycle" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used among friends, family, or colleagues in casual conversations. However, it can also be used in certain informal professional contexts where humor is acceptable.
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, 'I don't need your help, like a fish needs a bicycle.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Like a fish needs a bicycle!' to express that something is unnecessary.
