What does “Sixes and sevens” mean?
"Sixes and sevens" means being in a state of confusion or disorder.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After the storm, the neighborhood was left in sixes and sevens.
Example
I can't find anything in my messy room, it's all sixes and sevens.
Example
The team's strategy was sixes and sevens and they lost the game
Is “Sixes and sevens” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Sixes and sevens” 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 “Sixes and sevens” effectively in context?
You can use "Sixes and Sevens" to describe a situation or place that is in a state of confusion or disorder. Here are three distinct situations where you can effectively use this idiom:
- 1After a Disaster
After the storm, the neighborhood was left in sixes and sevens. Trees were uprooted, debris was scattered everywhere, and people didn't know where to start cleaning up.
- 2Messy Room
I can't find anything in my messy room, it's all sixes and sevens. Clothes are strewn across the floor, books are piled up haphazardly, and there's no organization whatsoever.
- 3Lack of Coordination
The team's strategy was sixes and sevens and they lost the game. Players were confused about their roles, there was miscommunication, and they couldn't work together effectively.
Similar phrases to “Sixes and sevens”:
Chaos reigns
A situation or place is in a state of complete disorder
Example
After the power outage, chaos reigned in the office as everyone tried to figure out what to do.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Sixes and sevens” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Sixes and Sevens" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from a dice game called 'hazard' in the 14th century. In the game, rolling a six or seven was considered a risky move, leading to confusion and disorder. Over time, the phrase came to represent a state of confusion or disorder.
Is “Sixes and sevens” common in everyday conversation?
"Sixes and Sevens" is not as common as some other idioms, but it is still used in everyday conversation. It may be more commonly used in certain regions or among specific groups of people.
What tone does “Sixes and sevens” have?
"Sixes and Sevens" conveys a tone of confusion and disorder. It is often used to describe chaotic situations or places.
Can “Sixes and sevens” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Sixes and Sevens" is generally used in informal conversations. It may not be suitable for very formal or professional settings.
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, 'The house was in "sixes and sevens" after the party.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Everything is in "sixes and sevens"!' to imply a state of confusion or disorder.
