IdiomAnimals

English

like a duck to water

Meaning: Naturally and easily, as if born to it.

Example: “She took to teaching like a duck to water.”

Origin: Ducklings swim as soon as they reach water. The phrase is found from the 19th century.

Equivalents in other languages

French: Comme un poisson dans l'eau Literally: Like a fish in water

More English idioms

have a foot in both camps To be involved with two opposing sides at once.
deaf as a post Completely deaf.
ugly as sin Very ugly.
terra firma Solid ground, as opposed to the sea or the air.
the sandman is coming It's time to sleep; someone is getting sleepy.
soaked to the skin Completely wet.

Explore another collection: Untranslatable Words

Words that capture a feeling or idea English needs a whole sentence for.

Avos' A blind, hopeful trust that things will somehow work out on their own — leaving the outco…
Pana poʻo Scratching your head to help yourself remember something you've forgotten.
Friolero A person who feels the cold far more than everyone else — always the first to reach for a…

Browse all untranslatable words →

Keep exploring

Explore all idioms →