Definition

Verb phrase: - To engage in a period of youthful, often promiscuous and self-indulgent behavior, especially before settling down. It implies seeking varied experiences, particularly of a sexual or hedonistic nature, associated with young adulthood.

Usage

This phrase is used to describe a phase, typically for a young man, of exploring freedom and indulging in pleasures before taking on adult responsibilities like marriage or a stable career. It often carries a connotation of reckless or unrestrained behavior.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The phrase is almost exclusively used for men. A similar, though less common and not directly equivalent, concept for women might be expressed as "sow her wild oats."
• It is frequently used in the past tense ("sowed his oats") to describe a phase that is now concluded.
• Often appears in contexts discussing maturity, responsibility, and the transition from youth to adulthood.

Variants and Related Words

• Sow wild oats: This is the more common and standard form of the phrase. "Sow one's oats" is a less frequent variant.
  • It's common for young men to sow wild oats before choosing a lifelong partner.

Synonyms

• Sow wild oats: (The primary synonym and more common form)
• Live it up: To live in a lively, extravagant, or uninhibited way.
• Sow one's wild oats: (Variant with the same meaning)

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning revolves around youthful indulgence and promiscuity. It is an idiom; the words "oats" and "sow" are not meant literally.
• It generally describes a temporary period, not a permanent lifestyle.
• The phrase can sometimes be used with a slightly disapproving tone, or alternatively, with a sense of nostalgic acceptance as a natural part of growing up.

Verb

1. live promiscuously and self-indulgently