IdiomThe Absurd
English
Englishgo off the deep end
Meaning: To become deeply involved with someone or something before one is ready; to go crazy.
Example: “He went off the deep end when his team lost the final.”
Equivalents in other languages
Dutch: uit zijn plaat gaan Literally: To go out of one's plate
Origin: From swimming pools, where the deep end is where one gets out of one's depth. The phrase is recorded from the early 20th century, first meaning to become very angry or overexcited, then to go crazy.
More English idioms
- go out on a limb To take a risk.
- go to the dogs To fall into disrepair; to deteriorate.
- go with the flow To take a relaxed attitude towards life.
- golden age A time when something is at its best.
- good Samaritan A person who helps someone in trouble without thought of personal gain.
- grim reaper Death.
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