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Processed with VS1Understand three nautical expressions for rejecting something, preparing for trouble, and disguising intentions.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis older episode draws on shipboard language to explain expressions used well beyond sailing. The lesson focuses on putting an idea aside, getting ready for difficulty, and recognizing when someone is presenting a false impression. The sea-based images are memorable, but the expressions differ in how common and serious they sound.
Cultural note: “Sail under false colors” implies deliberate misrepresentation and can be a serious accusation. Use it only when the context supports that meaning; otherwise, describe the specific mismatch between what someone claimed and what they did. “Deep-six” is casual and can sound dismissive when applied to another person’s idea.
Keep exploringWhy would a sailor secure a hatch before a storm—and what does that have to do with preparing for a difficult week?
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Casual language for abandoning an object, plan, or proposal.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Get rid of something or reject a plan so it will not go forward.
Tone & use
Informal and forceful. “Set aside” or “reject” is clearer in professional situations; do not use it to imply secretly destroying evidence.
Example
“After checking the budget, the organizers deep-sixed the expensive stage idea and chose a smaller setup.”
Never use this phrase to suggest hiding or destroying records that should be preserved.
A vivid nautical image for getting ready to face a challenge.
Meaning
Prepare carefully for a difficult period or likely trouble.
Tone & use
Common in figurative use, often with a playful or dramatic tone. It does not identify what the problem is, so explain the specific preparations too.
Example
“With a week of heavy rain forecast, the community center battened down the hatches by moving supplies upstairs.”
Recognize language for hiding one’s real intentions.
Meaning
Pretend to be something or someone different in order to mislead others.
Tone & use
Literary and accusatory. Use only when there is evidence of intentional deception; for an unexplained inconsistency, describe the facts instead.
Example
“The seller seemed to be sailing under false colors: the advertised company name did not match its registration or contact details.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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