What does “To draw water in a sieve.” mean?
"To draw water in a sieve" means to attempt to do something impossible or to waste one's efforts. This proverb is used to describe a fruitless effort or an attempt to do something that is bound to fail, just like trying to draw water in a sieve, which is impossible because the water will simply pass through the holes.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Trying to convince him to change his mind is like drawing water in a sieve. It's a futile effort.
Example
She spent hours trying to fix the broken vase, but it was like drawing water in a sieve. It was impossible to put it back together.
Example
I feel like I'm drawing water in a sieve when I try to explain the concept to him. He just doesn't seem to understand
Is “To draw water in a sieve.” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“To draw water in a sieve.” 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 “To draw water in a sieve.” effectively in context?
You can use "To draw water in a sieve" to describe a fruitless effort or an attempt to do something that is bound to fail. It emphasizes the futility and impossibility of the task. For instance, if someone is trying to convince another person who is stubborn and unwilling to change their mind, you might say, 'Trying to convince him to change his mind is like drawing water in a sieve. It's a futile effort.'
- 1Persuasion
Trying to convince him to change his mind is like drawing water in a sieve. It's a futile effort.
- 2Fixing
She spent hours trying to fix the broken vase, but it was like drawing water in a sieve. It was impossible to put it back together.
- 3Explanation
I feel like I'm drawing water in a sieve when I try to explain the concept to him. He just doesn't seem to understand.
Similar phrases to “To draw water in a sieve.”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “To draw water in a sieve.” come from?
The origin of the phrase "To draw water in a sieve" is unknown.
Is “To draw water in a sieve.” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "To draw water in a sieve" is not very common in everyday conversation. It is more often used in writing or formal situations to convey the idea of a futile effort or an impossible task.
What tone does “To draw water in a sieve.” have?
"To draw water in a sieve" conveys a tone of frustration and hopelessness. It is used to express the idea that no matter how much effort is put into something, it will ultimately be in vain.
Can “To draw water in a sieve.” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "To draw water in a sieve" is more commonly used in formal settings or in writing rather than in casual conversations. It is a figurative expression that conveys a specific meaning and is often used to make a point or emphasize the impossibility of a task.
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, 'Trying to convince him to change his mind is like drawing water in a sieve.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's like drawing water in a sieve!' to imply the futility of a situation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- futile effort
- wasted endeavor
- pointless task
- exercise in futility
- mission impossible
Antonyms
- successful endeavor
- efficient task
- productive effort
- achievable goal
- possible task
