sow one's (wild) oats

/sˈəʊ wˈɒnz wˈaɪld ˈəʊts/

/sˈoʊ wˈʌnz wˈaɪld ˈoʊts/

[phrase]

to sow one's (wild) oats

[PHRASE]

to engage in casual sexual encounters without commitment or serious relationships, particularly during one's youth

What is the origin of the idiom "sow one's oats" and when to use it?

The idiom "sow one's oats" is metaphorically linked to the act of scattering or planting oat seeds in agriculture. The metaphorical connection lies in the idea that just as seeds are scattered in various directions, individuals engaging in this behavior are exploring different experiences without committing to long-term relationships. It is used to describe a period in a person's life, usually during their youth or early adulthood, when they engage in adventurous, often casual behavior, particularly in terms of sexual relationships.

Examples

1. During his college years, John sowed his oats and enjoyed the freedom of casual relationships.

2. Sowing my oats, doing way too much.