half-seas-over
/'hɑ:fsi:z'ouvə/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: * Slightly drunk; intoxicated: The term "half-seas-over" is a British informal expression meaning to be partially drunk or intoxicated. It describes a state of mild inebriation, not complete drunkenness.
Usage
"Half-seas-over" is used as a predicative adjective (following a linking verb like be or get) to describe a person's state. It is considered informal, somewhat old-fashioned, and primarily used in British English.
Examples
- After three pints, he was already half-seas-over and starting to tell long stories.
- By the time the party ended, most of the guests were half-seas-over.
- She got a bit half-seas-over on champagne at the wedding reception.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase is often used humorously or euphemistically to describe a state of tipsiness. Its metaphorical origin relates to a ship that is halfway across the sea or, in nautical slang, a ship leaning to one side, much like an unsteady drunk person.
Variants and Related Words
- Intoxicated (adj.): The more formal, direct synonym.
- Tipsy (adj.): A common informal synonym for being slightly drunk.
- Merry (adj.): A cheerful, euphemistic way to describe being slightly intoxicated.
Synonyms
- Tipsy
- Buzzed (informal)
- Merry
- Lightheaded (from drink)
- Feeling no pain (humorous idiom)
Antonyms
- Sober
- Abstinent
- Clear-headed
Related Idioms
- To have had a few: An informal idiom meaning to have consumed enough alcohol to be slightly intoxicated.
- He's clearly had a few; he's a bit half-seas-over.
- To be under the influence: A more formal or legalistic phrase for being affected by alcohol or drugs.
- The driver was charged with being under the influence.
Adjective
- British informal for `intoxicated'