in-one's-element
/ˌɪn wʌnz ˈel.ɪ.mənt/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
If someone is in one's element, they feel comfortable and natural in a situation. They are doing something they like or are good at.
- She was in her element at the music festival.
- He is in his element when teaching children.
- In the kitchen, Mum is in her element.
Adinary Nuance
In one's element is different from comfortable or confident. It means someone feels natural because the situation suits them well, often because they enjoy it or are skilled there. You use it when someone seems completely at ease, not just relaxed for a moment.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- đúng sở trường
- Spanish
- en su salsa
- Chinese
- 如鱼得水
- Japanese
- 水を得た魚
- Korean
- 제 실력을 발휘하는
Etymology
This idiom uses the old idea of an "element" as the natural place where something belongs. It became common in English in the 19th century.
Common phrases
in her elementin his elementin their elementreally in his element
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is in one's element formal or informal?
- It is neutral English. You can use it in speech and writing.
- What is the difference between in one's element and comfortable?
- Comfortable means not stressed. In one's element means the situation also suits the person's skills or personality.
- Can I use in one's element for work or study?
- Yes. Use it when someone clearly enjoys and does well in that setting.