afloat
Meaning(s)
1. free from difficulties or financially solvent
Popularity
High
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
stay afloat
Analysis
To be 'afloat' in a literal sense means to be floating on water. Figuratively, it means to avoid being consumed by a difficult situation, particularly a financial or work-related one. If you have, at least for the time being, enough money to operate as normal and pay your debts, then you can be said to be 'afloat.' It is used in a social and professional context, but is more common in the latter. A similar expression is 'keep your head above water.'
Social Examples (Basic)
- I'm struggling to find work at the moment. All that's keeping me afloat is the loan I got from my father.
- I love that bakery but they are struggling to stay afloat as a big chain has opened nearby.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- In the current economic climate, many small businesses are struggling to stay afloat.
- The company is in a perilous financial position and has been forced to sell major assets just to keep afloat.
2. floating on water
Popularity
Low
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
keep afloat
Analysis
This definition is the literal meaning of the word and would only be used in a social context.
Social Examples (Basic)
- The only reason Kevin didn't drown when he fell into the water was because his lifejacket kept him afloat.
- When the boat was hit with a wave we had to scoop the water out with buckets to keep ourselves afloat.