PhrasesHub

Anchors aweigh

    Definitions

      • preparing to set sail
        To signal the beginning of a journey or voyage, often used in a military or naval context

      • moving on or leaving
        To indicate a departure or moving forward, often used in a figurative sense to signify a change or advancement in life

      • ready for action
        To express readiness or enthusiasm for taking on a challenge or task, often used in a motivational or encouraging manner

    Examples of Anchors aweigh

    • The captain shouted, "Anchors aweigh!" as the ship set sail.

      This idiom is used to indicate that the ship is leaving its anchored position and beginning its journey. It comes from the nautical term "weigh anchor," which means to lift the anchor off the ocean floor. The phrase "anchors aweigh" is a more poetic way of saying this, and is still used today in naval traditions.

    • After months of being stuck in port, the crew finally heard the captain's command to "anchors aweigh!"

      This example shows how the idiom can be used in a sentence to convey a sense of excitement and movement. In this case, the crew has been waiting for a long time to set sail, and the phrase "anchors aweigh" emphasizes the sense of freedom and adventure that comes with leaving behind the safety of the harbor.

    • The sailors cheered as the ship's anchor was lifted and they heard the captain's cry, "Anchors aweigh!"

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to convey a sense of camaraderie and shared experience. In this case, the sailors are working together to set the ship free, and the phrase "anchors aweigh" reflects the sense of unity and purpose that comes from being part of a crew.

    • The captain signaled to the crew, "Anchors aweigh!" as the ship began its journey across the open sea.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to create a vivid and immersive scene. In this case, the captain's command is a powerful moment that signals the start of a long and dangerous voyage, and the phrase "anchors aweigh" helps to set the tone for the story that follows.

    • The ship's anchor was raised, and the crew heard the captain's voice ring out, "Anchors aweigh!"

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to create a sense of drama and tension. In this case, the crew is on edge as they prepare to set sail, and the phrase "anchors aweigh" helps to build suspense and anticipation for what lies ahead.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "anchors aweigh" has multiple meanings, all related to the idea of moving forward or departing. It can be used in a literal sense to signal the start of a journey or voyage, or in a figurative sense to indicate progress or readiness for action.

    In a military or naval context, "anchors aweigh" is used to signal the beginning of a journey or voyage. This could be interpreted as preparing to set sail, both literally and figuratively. It can also be used to indicate a sense of urgency and readiness for action.

    Outside of a military context, "anchors aweigh" is often used to signify a departure or moving forward. It can be used to express a sense of moving on from one phase of life to another, or to indicate a change in direction or approach. It can also be used in a motivational or encouraging way, to express enthusiasm and readiness for taking on a challenge or task.

    Origin of "Anchors aweigh"

    The phrase "anchors aweigh" originated in the United States Navy, specifically in the early days of sailing ships. The word "aweigh" comes from the Old English term "on weg," meaning "on the way." In the Navy, the phrase was used to indicate that the ship's anchor was no longer touching the sea floor and that it was time to start moving forward.

    Over time, the phrase evolved to have a more figurative meaning, representing the idea of moving forward or leaving behind a stagnant position. Today, "anchors aweigh" is commonly used in a variety of contexts, both in and outside of the military, to signal the start of a journey or a shift in direction. Its origins in the Navy make it a powerful and evocative phrase, invoking images of adventure and progress.