Square peg in a round hole

Square peg in a round hole

Definition
Square Peg in the Round hole
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When we use the idiom “square peg in a round hole,” we’re talking about a person or thing that doesn’t fit well into a particular situation or role. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. Let’s say someone is really artistic and creative, but they’re working in a very structured and rigid job that doesn’t allow for much creativity. They might feel like a square peg in a round hole because their skills and personality don’t align with the requirements of the job.

This idiom is often used to describe situations where someone or something is mismatched or doesn’t quite belong. It’s like saying that they don’t fit naturally or comfortably into that specific context. It can be used in various contexts, such as describing a person in a job, a student in a school, or even an idea in a discussion.

Similar idioms: Let's Break The Icee | The Ball Is In Your Court | I’ll Take A Rain Check On That Meeting | Let's Not Reinvent The Wheel | We're Playing Catch-Up | Wrap It Up

Example sentences
John is a brilliant scientist, but he feels like a square peg in a round hole working in a corporate office.
Trying to fit a traditional teaching method into a progressive school is like putting a square peg in a round hole.
Sarah’s adventurous spirit made her feel like a square peg in a round hole in her small hometown.
The introverted artist felt like a square peg in a round hole at the loud and crowded party.
It’s like trying to force a square peg in a round hole when you try to make someone conform to societal norms.