ENGLISH
REFERENCE

get in the boat and row

idiom
Meaning

To make a substantial effort, especially in cooperation with others in a group; also, to perform one's share of work.


Origin

disputed origin

From the image of a person or group of people stepping into a boat and rowing to get it moving.

Examples
SIMPLE

If we want to finish this project, everyone must get in the boat and row.

CONTEXTUAL

The team was falling behind on the deadline, so the manager reminded them that they all needed to get in the boat and row.

COMPLEX

Recognizing that the survival of the organization depended on collective action, the board members finally agreed to put aside their differences, get in the boat, and row.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    boy in the boat

    The human clitoris.

  2. 02

    camp as a row of tents

    Very camp, highly campy.

  3. 03

    can't get enough

    Greatly enjoys; likes a lot.

  4. 04

    could not get elected dogcatcher

    Said of someone, particularly a politician, who is extremely unpopular.

  5. 05

    don't get someone started

    Used to attempt to avoid or abbreviate a discussion that speaker or hearer may wish to avoid.

  6. 06

    five will get you ten

    I strongly believe.

  7. 07

    float someone's boat

    To interest or appeal to someone; to make someone happy.

  8. 08

    fresh off the boat

    Newly arrived from a foreign place, especially as an immigrant who is still unfamiliar with the customs and language of their new environment.

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