Buzz
Discover how this expression evolved into a symbol of confusion and detachment
The phrase 'lost in the sauce' isn't about a pasta dish—it's a metaphor for feeling lost, disconnected, or overwhelmed. First popularized by American rapper Gucci Mane, it refers to a state of confusion or emotional disorientation, often tied to being intoxicated. Keep reading to uncover the history of this iconic phrase, along with examples of how to use it in conversation.
What does 'lost in the sauce' really mean?
'Lost in the sauce' is a slang expression that conveys the feeling of being completely out of touch or disoriented. It can also describe someone who's intoxicated or disconnected from reality.
Steps
Definition of 'Lost in the Sauce'
'Lost in the sauce' refers to a person being completely out of touch and disoriented. When someone is 'lost in the sauce,' they are often disconnected from the world around them, whether confused or just deeply distracted by something else. It's like they're daydreaming or stuck in their own head.
- 'I tried to get his attention in the cafeteria, but he was totally lost in the sauce.'
- 'Are you okay, bro? You seem pretty lost in the sauce.'
'Lost in the sauce' can also describe someone becoming disconnected from reality. This happens when someone experiences a change in life—like a big promotion or a sudden windfall—and starts losing touch with who they are, making reckless or foolish decisions.
- 'Ever since Jason got that promotion, he’s been totally lost in the sauce. Dude is off the rails!'
- 'That’s insane that she expects to get 100 million dollars in her new contract. She is totally lost in the sauce…'
'Lost in the sauce' can sometimes just mean being drunk. Here, 'sauce' represents alcohol. If someone’s 'lost in the sauce,' they’ve likely had a few too many drinks and are feeling tipsy or a bit off balance.
- 'Don’t look now, but your mom is totally lost in the sauce…'
- 'That’s Brit’s third glass of wine, right? No wonder she’s so lost in the sauce.'
How to Use the Expression 'Lost in the Sauce'
Use 'lost in the sauce' to describe someone who’s completely out of it. If you notice someone acting disoriented or disconnected from reality, 'lost in the sauce' might be the perfect way to sum up their mental state.
- 'Have you talked to Marco lately? He seems like he’s been lost in the sauce…'
- 'Sorry, dude. Ever since I restarted my Elden Ring playthrough, I’ve been totally lost in the sauce.'
Call out someone who’s out of touch by saying they’re 'lost in the sauce.' Whether it’s a friend who seems to have lost track of reality or a celebrity making bizarre decisions, this phrase fits perfectly to describe their mindset.
- 'Ever since she booked that movie deal, she’s been totally lost in the sauce.'
- 'Apparently, he paid $900 for the pair of jeans he’s wearing right now. He’s seriously lost in the sauce.'
Use 'lost in the sauce' to talk about someone who’s really drunk. If you notice someone having a little too much fun with the drinks, this phrase can add some humor when describing their state.
- 'Sorry I didn’t text you back last night. I was a little lost in the sauce…'
- 'I don’t know how many shots you’ve had, but you’re totally lost in the sauce.'
The Origins of 'Lost in the Sauce'
The phrase 'lost in the sauce' comes from a quote by Gucci Mane. In episode 3 of the 2013 Noisey Raps series on the Noisey YouTube channel, Gucci Mane said, 'If you don’t got no sauce, you’re lost. But you can also get lost in the sauce.' Here, 'sauce' represents the desirable aspects of life, like wealth and respect. A person can feel lost without these things, but they can also become overwhelmed or consumed by them if they focus too much on them.
'Lost in the sauce' has connections to military terminology. The phrase 'lost in the sauce' can be seen as part of military slang, where it conveys the same meaning: someone who’s out of sync, disoriented, and has little hope of getting back on track.
- 'He seemed totally lost in the sauce during drills today.'
