[Idiom] SOW WILD OATS. - Understand Reckless Youthful Behaviors

Sow wild oats.

Sow wild oats.

/səʊ waɪld oʊts/

Indulge in unrestrained behavior in youth.

To "sow wild oats" refers to young people indulging in reckless or wild behavior before settling down. It's derived from the idea of sowing unwanted seeds (oats being less valued), implying these actions are part of growing up, but expected to be outgrown.

Example Sentences

  1. After college, he moved to New York to sow his wild oats.

    Describes a person moving to a vibrant, bustling city post-graduation to likely indulge in adventurous or hedonistic activities.

  2. During his youth, my grandfather sowed his wild oats, traveling the world.

    The statement depicts a young period in someone's life filled with exploration and possibly reckless behavior while traveling around the world.

  3. He felt that it was time to settle down after sowing his wild oats for a few years.

    This reflects a decision to transition to a more stable or responsible phase of life after a period of youthful indulgence and freedom.

Time really flies when you're having fun!
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