The deep end

/ðə dˈiːp ˈɛnd/

the deep end

PHRASE

a situation that is very difficult because one is not prepared to deal with it

What is the origin of the idiom "the deep end" and when to use it?

The idiom "the deep end" has its origins in the world of swimming pools. It refers to the part of a pool that is furthest from the shallow or safe area, where the water is typically deeper and more challenging to navigate. The deep end is associated with greater risks and difficulties due to its depth. This expression is used to describe a situation or experience that is intense, challenging, or overwhelming.

the section of a swimming pool where the water is at its deepest point

Example

They went off the deep end when they discovered their project had been canceled.

She goes off the deep end whenever someone criticizes her work.

I decided to take the plunge and sign up for an advanced language course, knowing it would throw me in at the deep end, but I was eager to challenge myself.