What does “On the rocks” mean?

"On the rocks" means being in a difficult or unstable situation.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Their relationship is on the rocks after the big fight.

Example

The company is on the rocks and may have to lay off employees.

Example

His career is on the rocks after the scandal

Is “On the rocks” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“On the rocks” 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 “On the rocks” effectively in context?

You can use "On the rocks" to describe a situation that is difficult or unstable. It often refers to relationships, businesses, or careers that are in trouble or facing challenges. For example, if a couple is having constant arguments and their relationship is in jeopardy, you might say, 'Their relationship is "on the rocks" after the big fight.'

1Relationships
Their relationship is on the rocks after the big fight.
2Business
The company is on the rocks and may have to lay off employees.
3Career
His career is on the rocks after the scandal.

Similar phrases to “On the rocks”:

In hot water

In trouble or facing difficulties

Example

He found himself in hot water after missing an important deadline.

Going downhill

Getting worse or deteriorating

Example

The company's financial situation is going downhill.

Hanging by a thread

In a precarious or unstable state

Example

His job security is hanging by a thread.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “On the rocks” come from?

The origin of the phrase "On the rocks" is unknown.

Is “On the rocks” common in everyday conversation?

"On the rocks" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe challenging or unstable situations, especially in the context of relationships, businesses, or careers.

What tone does “On the rocks” have?

"On the rocks" conveys a tone of concern or worry. It suggests that the situation being described is not going well and may be in danger of failing.

Can “On the rocks” be used in informal and formal settings?

"On the rocks" is a relatively informal expression. It is commonly used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal settings, such as business discussions or professional writing, to describe the unstable state of a company or career.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

"On the rocks" is typically used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Their relationship is on the rocks and they need to work on their communication.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Their relationship is "on the rocks"!' to imply that it is in trouble.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

unstable
in trouble
in a difficult situation
in jeopardy
in crisis