phrase🎓 English idiom

in hot water

in trouble

What it means

In trouble or facing difficulty, usually because of something you have done that has angered or disappointed others. It describes a position where you are likely to be punished or criticised.

Examples

  • He landed in hot water after missing three deadlines in a row.
  • The company is in hot water with regulators over its accounting.
  • You'll be in hot water if the boss finds out you skipped the meeting.
  • She got into hot water for posting confidential details online.

Where it comes from

The figurative use dates to the 16th century, drawing on the literal discomfort of being placed in scalding water. The image of boiling water as a source of pain made it a natural metaphor for trouble.

Related idioms

#on thin ice#face the music#caught red-handed#get out of hand

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