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over one's head
01
used to refer to something that is complicated or difficult beyond one's understanding or capability
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "over one's head" and when to use it?
The idiom "over one's head" likely originated from the literal act of something being physically above a person's head. This idiomatic expression is now commonly used to indicate that something is beyond someone's comprehension or abilities.
Example
When I became a graduate student I knew at once I was way in over my head.
The joke flew over her head because she always thinks in literal terms.
She poured the icy drink over her head to cool off in the summer heat.
She draped her scarf over her head as the cold drizzle began to fall.
The complex financial investments were beyond his comprehension, and he felt in over his head.
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