What does “Water off a duck's back” mean?
"Water off a duck's back" means that something doesn't affect or bother someone.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I tried to insult him, but it was like water off a duck's back.
Example
No matter what criticism she receives, it's always water off a duck's back for her.
Example
He's so confident that negative comments just roll off him like water off a duck's back
Is “Water off a duck's back” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Water off a duck's back” 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 “Water off a duck's back” effectively in context?
You can use "Water off a Duck's Back" to describe a situation where someone is unaffected by criticism, insults, or negative comments. It implies that the person is resilient and doesn't let such things bother them. For example, if a friend receives a lot of criticism for their work but remains unfazed, you might say, 'All the negative feedback just rolls off them like water off a duck's back.'
- 1Personal Resilience
No matter how much he's criticized, it's always water off a duck's back for him.
- 2Dealing with Insults
I tried to insult him, but it was like water off a duck's back.
- 3Confidence
He's so confident that negative comments just roll off him like water off a duck's back.
Similar phrases to “Water off a duck's back”:
Teflon-coated
Describing someone who is unaffected by criticism or negative comments
Example
He's completely teflon-coated; nothing sticks to him.
Not bothered or affected by something
Example
She remained unfazed by all the negative comments.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Water off a duck's back” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Water off a Duck's Back" is unknown.
Is “Water off a duck's back” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Water off a Duck's Back" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone who is unaffected by criticism or negative comments.
What tone does “Water off a duck's back” have?
"Water off a Duck's Back" conveys a tone of resilience and indifference. It suggests that the person being described is strong and unaffected by negativity.
Can “Water off a duck's back” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Water off a Duck's Back" is informal and can be used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it may not be as commonly used in more formal 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, 'No matter what they say, it's like "water off a duck's back" to her.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Just let it roll off like "water off a duck's back"!' to imply not letting something bother you.
