keep your head above water
Meaning(s)
1. avoid being overcome by a difficult situation
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
I'm barely earning enough to keep my head above water
Analysis
If you 'keep your head above water' in a literal sense, it means you avoid being consumed by water or drowning. Figuratively, therefore, this expression means to avoid being consumed by a difficult situation, particularly one related to work or finances. The term evokes a sense of desperation, and is similar to the phrases 'stay afloat' and 'make ends meet.' It is commonly used in both a social and professional context.
Social Examples (Basic)
- I'm in a terrible state financially. My credit card is the only thing keeping my head above water.
- If our rent goes up I don't know how we will keep our head above water.
- Widespread job losses mean that many families in the area are struggling to keep their heads above water and pay their bills.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- I need to ask my boss for a raise. I'm barely earning enough at the moment to keep my head above water.
- There's so much work that needs to be done before the deadline that it is swamping me. Without help, I don't think I'll be able to keep my head above water.