What Does “Be Thrown Into” Mean?
The phrase “be thrown into” is commonly used in English to describe a situation where someone is suddenly placed into a new, often challenging or unfamiliar environment—without preparation or warning.
It conveys a sense of abruptness, lack of control, and sometimes overwhelm.
Common Usage & Examples
“On my first day as a nurse, I was thrown into the emergency room with no orientation.”
“After the CEO resigned, she was thrown into the leadership role overnight.”
It can be used literally (e.g., thrown into water) or figuratively (e.g., thrown into chaos, responsibility, or a project).
Origin & Etymology
While the exact origin is unclear, the phrase likely stems from physical actions—such as being literally tossed into a space—and evolved metaphorically to describe sudden transitions in life, work, or emotion.
It appears frequently in literature and journalism from the 19th century onward, reflecting industrialization and rapid societal change.
Cultural References
- In films like The Intern, characters are “thrown into” high-pressure workplaces.
- Reality TV shows often “throw contestants into” extreme challenges.
- Books about war or survival frequently use the phrase to depict sudden immersion into danger.
Try It Yourself!
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