The idiom "fish out of water" means to feel uncomfortable or out of place in a new or unfamiliar situation. It is often used to describe someone who is not used to a particular environment or situation and therefore feels awkward or uneasy.
For example, if someone who has never been to a big city suddenly finds themselves in the middle of Times Square, they might feel like a fish out of water because they are not used to the noise, crowds, and fast pace of city life.
This idiom can also be used to describe someone who is not familiar with a particular culture or way of life. For instance, if someone from a rural area visits a big city and is not used to the hustle and bustle of city life, they might feel like a fish out of water.
Overall, the idiom "fish out of water" is used to describe someone who is uncomfortable or out of place in a new or unfamiliar situation.
• As a scientist attending a literature conference, I felt like a fish out of water. (Feeling out of place in a setting outside of one's field)
• As a vegetarian, I felt like a fish out of water at the BBQ. (Feeling out of place due to personal beliefs or habits)
• After years of working in finance, I felt like a fish out of water when I decided to pursue a career in the arts. (Feeling out of place due to a major career change)
• I feel like a fish out of water at this party. (Feeling uncomfortable in a new social situation)
• As a native English speaker, I felt like a fish out of water when I visited a foreign country where nobody spoke English. (Feeling uncomfortable due to language barriers)
• Coming from a small town, I felt like a fish out of water when I moved to the big city. (Feeling out of place in a new environment)