Meaning: This idiom means to be out of danger or difficulty, though not necessarily back to normal. It implies that the most challenging or risky part of a situation is over.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “After weeks of treatment, the doctors say he’s finally out of the woods and on the road to recovery.”
- “Our sales have improved this quarter, but we’re not out of the woods yet; we still need to reach our annual targets.”
- “The storm has passed, but we’re not out of the woods; there could still be flooding in low-lying areas.”
Origin: The origin of the idiom “out of the woods” is thought to come from the literal experience of being in a dense forest or wilderness. Being “in the woods” would imply being surrounded by potential dangers and uncertainties, such as getting lost or encountering wild animals. Emerging “out of the woods” would then signify reaching a safer, clearer, and more navigable area, thus escaping the perils associated with the forest. This phrase has been used metaphorically since at least the 18th century to describe overcoming the most challenging part of a difficult situation.
