be out of elementto feel unhappy or strange because you are in a situation that you are not familiar with
[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲
out of one's element adv. phr. Outside of your natural surroundings; where you do not belong or fit in.
Wild animals are out of their element in cages.
Chris is out of his element in singing class. Compare: OUT OF PLACE, BEYOND ONE'S DEPTH.
Antonym: IN ONE'S ELEMENT.
[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲