What does “Six feet under” mean?
"Six feet under" means that someone or something is dead and buried.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After the funeral, he was laid six feet under.
Example
The old cemetery is filled with people who are six feet under.
Example
She couldn't believe her ex-boyfriend was six feet under
Is “Six feet under” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Six feet under” 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 “Six feet under” effectively in context?
You can use "Six Feet Under" to refer to someone who has passed away and is buried. It is often used in a solemn or respectful manner. For example, if someone asks about a deceased relative, you might say, 'Unfortunately, they are now "six feet under".'
- 1Discussing a Funeral
After the funeral, he was laid six feet under.
- 2Visiting a Cemetery
The old cemetery is filled with people who are six feet under.
- 3Expressing Shock or Disbelief
She couldn't believe her ex-boyfriend was six feet under.
Similar phrases to “Six feet under”:
Pushing up daisies
To be dead and buried
Example
He's been pushing up daisies for years now.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Six feet under” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Six Feet Under" can be traced back to the practice of burying bodies six feet deep in graves. This practice was believed to prevent the spread of diseases and protect the deceased from being disturbed by animals. The phrase has since evolved to represent someone who is dead and buried.
Is “Six feet under” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Six Feet Under" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to talk about death in a metaphorical way, referring to someone who has passed away and is buried.
What tone does “Six feet under” have?
"Six Feet Under" conveys a tone of solemnity and finality. It is typically used in serious or respectful contexts when discussing death or someone who has passed away.
Can “Six feet under” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Six Feet Under" is a relatively formal expression. It is commonly used in conversations about death, funerals, or cemeteries. While it may be used in informal settings, it is more commonly used in formal or serious discussions.
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, 'He was laid "six feet under" after the funeral.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They are now "six feet under".' to imply that someone has passed away.
