“Off Kilter” Meaning, Origin and Examples

This reference covers the idiom “Off Kilter,” including its meaning, origin, and examples of its usage. You’ll also find alternative ways to express the same idea. The idiom “Off Kilter” is often used in everyday conversations to describe something that is not quite right or slightly off balance. By learning more about this phrase, you can enhance your understanding of informal language and improve your conversational skills.

“Off Kilter” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “off kilter” means something is not quite right, balanced, or aligned. It can refer to a physical object that is crooked or out of position, as well as metaphorically describing a situation, plan, or person that feels strange, awkward, or not functioning as expected.
Off Kilter
Off Kilter – Created by 7ESL

“Off Kilter” Meaning

The phrase “long in the tooth” is an idiomatic expression that means someone or something is old or aging. It is often used to describe a person who is getting older, but it can also refer to things that have aged or become outdated. The expression originates from the observation that as horses age, their gums recede, making their teeth appear longer.

Examples:

  • “That old car is getting a bit long in the tooth; it might be time to consider buying a new one.”
  • “She’s a great teacher, but she’s been in the profession for decades and is getting long in the tooth.”

Origin of This Idiomatic Expression 

The phrase was first seen used in the 1600s as “out of kilter” where kilter was originally spelled kelter. However, its origin beyond that is unknown. In the 1800s, the phrase was changed and both were used interchangeably among people.

Usage of “Off Kilter”

  • In a discussion about home decor:

“The shelf looks off kilter; we need to adjust it so it’s level with the other furniture.”

  • Talking about a person’s mood:

“She seemed a bit off kilter today, perhaps because of the stressful week she had.”

  • Describing a situation:

“The team’s dynamics felt off kilter after the recent changes in leadership.”

  • In a review of a film or book:

“The plot was interesting, but some character motivations felt off kilter, making it hard to connect with them.”

Related Terms to “Off Kilter”

  • Out of balance – not properly proportioned or aligned.
  • Awry – away from the expected or proper direction; not right.
  • Askew – not in a straight or level position; crooked.
  • Uneven – not level or equal; inconsistent.
  • Unbalanced – lacking stability or equilibrium.
  • Out of sorts – feeling unwell or in a bad mood; not quite right.
  • Disjointed – lacking a coherent connection; not fitting together smoothly.
  • In disarray – in a state of disorder or confusion.
  • Irregular – not following the usual pattern or standard.
  • Strange – unusual or unfamiliar; not typical.

Other Ways to Say “Off Kilter”

Like all idioms, there are literal ways to say this phrase to convey the same meaning. For example, you could say it’s not working properly, it is completely out of alignment or he/she is crazy.

“Off Kilter” synonyms list:

  • Strange
  • Odd
  • Crazy
  • Weird
  • Creepy
  • Freaky
  • Awkward

“Off Kilter” Examples

Examples in Statements

A news report statement about a new town law being passed.

  • “The law seems off kilter based on the objectives of the citizens who call this place home.”

A statement made as to why an accident happened at the plant.

  • “I don’t know why the machine started a fire. Although now that I think about it, it did seem a bit off kilter all day.”

Examples in Conversation

A conversation between two co-workers.

  • Co-worker 1: Are you alright Josh?
  • Co-worker 2: I don’t know, to be honest. My life has been so off kilter since having the new baby in the house.

A conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: Have you met the new boy at school yet?
  • Friend 2: Yes.
  • Friend 1: Does he seem a little off kilter to you?

Learn more with commonly English idioms used today.

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