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Additionally, learn how to come up with your own rhyming phrase that 'floats your boat'
When someone says 'Whatever floats your boat' to you, they aren’t referring to keeping a literal boat afloat. Instead, this idiom means doing whatever pleases you or makes you happy—much like the slang phrase 'you do you.' In this article, we’ll explore the full meaning of this expression, when to use it, its origins, and how you can craft your own version of this playful rhyme. Keep reading to discover more!
Understanding the Expression: 'Whatever Floats Your Boat' in a Nutshell
'Whatever floats your boat' is a laid-back English saying that encourages doing whatever makes you happy or suits your preferences. It's a metaphor, where the 'boat' represents the individual and 'floating' symbolizes doing what brings joy. You might use this expression to support someone’s choices when you have no strong opinion about the matter.
How to Use It
What is the meaning of the phrase “Whatever floats your boat”?
'Whatever floats your boat' is an expression used to indicate doing whatever makes you feel happy or excited. It’s an informal English phrase often used to show approval of someone's decision or to let them know they have various options. It’s quite similar to the slang phrase 'You do you.' Saying this phrase also suggests that you don’t have a strong preference either way. You can also use it to express your own personal preference, as in saying something 'floats your own boat.'
- 'What should we watch tonight? Pick whatever floats your boat!'
- 'I enjoy all the flavors, but strawberry really floats my boat.'
- 'Whatever floats your boat' is distinct from other boat-related English idioms:
- 'To rock the boat' refers to doing or saying something that disrupts the status quo or causes trouble.
- 'To push the boat out' means to spend more money than usual, often for a special occasion or celebration.
When to use the phrase 'Whatever floats your boat'
Use 'whatever floats your boat' to express approval of someone’s choice. If someone shares a minor decision they've made or asks for your input, you can respond with 'Whatever floats your boat' to show that you’re happy with their choice. This phrase suggests that you don’t have a strong opinion on the matter or don’t have anything invested in the decision.
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Them: 'Is it okay if we have spaghetti for dinner tonight?'
You: 'Sure, whatever floats your boat.' -
Them: 'I think I’m going to skip pilates today and enjoy a self-care session instead.'
You: 'Whatever floats your boat! You deserve some relaxation.' - Tone tip: This phrase works best in casual, light-hearted conversations with friends, family, or familiar acquaintances. In more formal or professional settings, it may sound overly casual or dismissive.
Use 'floats your boat' to express personal preferences or fondness. You can also use 'whatever floats your boat' to describe something you really enjoy or like. For instance, if autumn is your favorite season, you could say 'fall floats my boat.' Just replace 'whatever' with the thing you’re referring to, and switch 'your' to 'my' to reflect your own preferences. Using this phrase highlights that you have a special fondness for something, often more so than other choices.
- 'I’m not too picky about desserts, but cheesecake really floats my boat.'
- 'Nothing floats my boat like a basket of crispy chicken tenders after a long day.'
Alternatively, you can use a sarcastic tone to express disagreement or a sense of superiority. If someone makes a choice you disagree with or believe is inferior to your own, respond with 'whatever floats your boat' in a sarcastic or condescending tone. This usage implies that you don't support their decision, but you're not interested in arguing because it’s not your concern. It also subtly suggests that your opinion is superior and that they’re the ones missing out.
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Them: 'Grace and I are getting back together.'
You: 'Really? Again? Whatever floats your boat, I guess.' -
Them: 'I’m sticking with my original science fair idea.'
You: 'Whatever floats your boat! You’ll come in second place behind me.'
Is 'Whatever floats your boat' a positive or negative phrase?
'Whatever floats your boat' is usually a positive or neutral phrase. In most situations, people use it to express indifference, showing that they don’t have a strong opinion and that you should do what makes you happy. It’s a casual expression, typically used by friends, family, or colleagues who want you to feel free to make your own choice.
- However, the phrase can take on a negative tone if used sarcastically or following a disagreement, signaling disapproval of the choice someone made. The context, including tone, will usually reveal if it's being used in a negative way.
Where did the phrase 'Whatever floats your boat' originate?
The phrase 'Whatever floats your boat' likely originated in nautical culture. While its exact origins remain unclear, it probably emerged from the world of shipbuilding and sailing, where ensuring boats stayed afloat was a primary concern. Over time, it evolved into a metaphor used to express doing whatever brings you happiness or works for you.
- Many trace the phrase to American recreational sailors, with one of its earliest printed uses appearing in a 1979 issue of The Tampa Bay Times, where it was mentioned in an article about boat decorating: 'You are the ultimate interior decorator for your boat. Remember, there are no hard and fast rules—just go with whatever floats your boat.'
- The nautical world has given us many other expressions, including:
- 'All hands on deck': Originally a command for every sailor to pitch in, it’s now used to ask for help on tasks ranging from everyday chores to serious professional projects.
- 'Under the weather': Sailors would go below deck to escape bad weather; now, it simply means feeling sick.
- 'Learn the ropes': This term originated when sailors were instructed to learn the complex system of ropes aboard a ship. Today, it means understanding the details of any new job, project, or activity.
Alternative Expressions for 'Whatever Floats Your Boat'
'You do you' The phrase 'You do you' is another popular English slang that works similarly to 'whatever floats your boat.' It means that you think someone should make their own choices and do what brings them happiness or satisfaction.
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Them: 'I think I’ll stay in tonight instead of going to Carl’s birthday party.'
You: 'You do you! I’ll fill you in tomorrow.'
'Different strokes for different folks' This expression highlights the idea that people are unique and have different preferences and needs for their happiness. You can use this to show understanding or support for someone’s choices, even if they differ from your own. It carries the same playful tone as 'whatever floats your boat' because of its rhyming structure.
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Them: 'I decided not to take the promotion.'
You: 'Really? I would have, but different strokes for different folks!'
'Whatever tickles your fancy' This expression means choosing something that excites or attracts you. 'Fancy' refers to your desires, and 'tickling' them means catching your attention. You can swap this in for 'whatever floats your boat,' but be aware that 'tickles your fancy' can sometimes carry a playful or flirtatious vibe.
- 'We can go anywhere for date night tonight! Whatever tickles your fancy 😉'
Create your own phrase with the pattern 'Whatever ____s your ____.' 'Whatever floats your boat' may be the original, but its simple structure makes it easy to adapt with different words. Just find a pairing of an object and a verb that fits, like 'boats must float.' If you’re a baker, for example, you might say 'Whatever bakes your cake!' (The rhyme adds a clever twist, but it’s not necessary!) Here are a few more variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- 'Whatever lights your fire'
- 'Whatever paddles your canoe'
- 'Whatever finds your inbox'
- 'Whatever ruffles your feathers'
- 'Whatever cools your jets'
