Not Quite in the Same Orbit
Out of It: Out of touch with current conditions, oblivious. This phrase has an illustrious history dating back to the mid-1900s and rapidly rocketed to cliché status. The visionary S. Stevens captured its essence in “Way Uptown” (1971): “She was so out of it she musta been from some other world…”
Related Expressions and Similar Terms
- Out to Lunch: completely unaware of the prevailing conditions; another gastronomical exploration of oblivion.
- In the Clouds: lost in dreamy or unrealistic thoughts, often oblivious to the surroundings.
- In a Fog: confused or unable to think clearly.
- Space Cadet: someone who exhibits spacey behavior, often accused of being oblivious or out of touch with reality.
- Lost in Space: figuratively lost in thought, not emotionally or mentally available.
Humorous Quotes and References
- “You know you’re really out of it when you’re in a room full of people laughing, and you don’t get the joke.” — Comedian Pete Misfit
- “Ever talk to someone who is out to lunch? Yeah, they’re not coming back with leftovers.” — Unknown
Recommended Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Books: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll (For a delightful dive into fantastical disconnection)
- Movies: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (Reality and oblivion casually do a shuffle here)
- Songs: ‘Space Oddity’ by David Bowie (“Ground Control to Major Tom…”)
- Poetry: Kubla Khan by Samuel Taylor Coleridge (Sometimes your head ends up in Xanadu!)
As is often the case with language, one’s idiomatic journey doesn’t have to end; because 🎤 “It’s always best to put your best foot forward, even when your head’s in the clouds.”
### Which terms mean the same as ‘out of it’?
- [x] In the clouds
- [ ] On the ball
- [x] Space Cadet
- [ ] With it
> **Explanation:** "In the clouds" and "space cadet" both indicate states of being oblivious or detached, whereas "on the ball" and "with it" indicate awareness and alertness.
### Which phrase means someone is completely out of touch or unaware?
- [ ] Kitchen philosophers
- [ ] Bedrock thinker
- [x] Out to lunch
- [ ] Lucky penny
> **Explanation:** "Out to lunch" is a colloquial term indicating someone is entirely unaware or disengaged from the present situation.
### Is ‘In a fog’ a related expression?
- [x] Yes
- [ ] No
> **Explanation:** Definitely yes! Someone “in a fog” is typically confused or not thinking clearly, closely associated with being out of touch.
“Language is the immeasurable horizon of our understanding. As we navigate, let’s embrace every quirky phrase, iconic cliché, and inspirational platitude, for they enrich our narrative tapestry beautifully.” — Epicurus Epistle
