Up to one's ears meaning

"Being completely overwhelmed or deeply involved in something."


Up to one's ears definitions

Word backwards pu ot s'eno srae
Part of speech This phrase is an idiomatic expression and does not have a specific part of speech. However, it is often used as an adverbial phrase to modify a verb or adjective.
Syllabic division up to one's ears: up to / one's / ears
Plural The plural of "up to one's ears" is "up to their ears."
Total letters 12
Vogais (4) u,o,e,a
Consonants (5) p,t,n,s,r

Up to one's ears is a common idiom that refers to being completely overwhelmed or deeply involved in a situation. When someone is up to their ears in something, it means they are fully immersed or consumed by it, often to the point of feeling overwhelmed.

Origin of the Idiom

The expression likely originated from the idea of being so deeply submerged in something that even your ears are covered. It conveys a sense of being completely surrounded or engrossed, unable to escape or find relief.

Usage in Everyday Language

This idiom is commonly used in everyday language to describe situations where someone is heavily involved or overwhelmed. It can be used in various contexts, such as work, relationships, or responsibilities, to convey a sense of being deeply immersed or absorbed.

Alternative Expressions

Similar expressions to "up to one's ears" include "neck-deep," "swamped," or "in over one's head." These phrases all convey a sense of being completely submerged or overwhelmed by a situation.

Implications of Being Up to One's Ears

When someone is up to their ears in something, it can imply a sense of stress, pressure, or being out of control. It suggests that the individual is struggling to manage the situation or handle the demands placed upon them.

Overall, the idiom "up to one's ears" is a vivid and expressive way to describe being deeply involved or overwhelmed by a situation. It conveys a sense of immersion and intensity that resonates with many people who have experienced feeling consumed by their circumstances.


Up to one's ears Examples

  1. I am up to my ears in work right now.
  2. She is up to her ears in debt.
  3. He is up to his ears in love with her.
  4. They are up to their ears in planning for the event.
  5. The company is up to its ears in legal troubles.
  6. We are up to our ears in groceries after shopping.
  7. The students are up to their ears in studying for the exam.
  8. I am up to my ears in emotions after watching that movie.
  9. The team is up to its ears in training for the competition.
  10. She is up to her ears in excitement for the upcoming trip.


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  • Updated 10/04/2024 - 18:05:20