What does the metaphor like a fish out of water mean?

"Like a fish out water" is a metaphoric expression that is often used to describe a person who feels uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation or environment. It is often used to describe someone who is not familiar with the customs, norms, or expectations of the group or situation they are in, and as a result, feels awkward, lost, or confused.

The image of a fish out of water is used to illustrate this feeling, as a fish's natural habitat is water, and when taken out of the water, it becomes helpless and vulnerable. Similarly, a person who feels like a fish out of water may feel helpless, vulnerable, or unable to cope with the demands of the situation they are in.

This metaphor can be applied to a variety of contexts, such as feeling out of place in a new job, school, or social setting, or feeling uncomfortable or awkward in certain social situations. It is also often used to describe situations where there is a significant cultural or linguistic gap, making it difficult for someone to integrate and adapt.

In summary, the metaphor "like a fish out of water" conveys a sense of discomfort, displacement, or alienation that someone feels when they are in a situation that is unfamiliar, challenging, or beyond their comfort zone. It is often used to describe situations where someone feels like they don't belong or fit in.