beyond one's depth

phrase

variants or out of one's depth
: beyond the limits of one's capabilities
an actor who is out of his depth in serious drama

Word History

First Known Use

1623, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of beyond one's depth was in 1623

Cite this Entry

“Beyond one's depth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/beyond%20one%27s%20depth. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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