Float somebody’s boat

usgb
verb

To make someone excited, happy, or satisfied.

If reading books all day is what floats your boat, then you should consider becoming a literature professor.
Visual representation of "float somebody’s boat" - To make someone excited, happy, or satisfied.

Often appears as...

  • whatever floats your boat
  • if that floats your boat

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "float somebody’s boat"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Subjective Preference

The phrase emphasizes personal preference or enjoyment in an activity or thing, varying from person to person.

Illustration for Subjective Preference
I don't like fishing, but if it floats your boat, go for it!
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Usage

Often used in casual or informal settings rather than formal or professional ones.

Illustration for Informal Usage
You want to wear stripes with polka dots? If it floats your boat!
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Tolerance

Can suggest that while the speaker may not share the same enthusiasm, they accept the other person's choice.

Illustration for Tolerance
Playing chess all weekend isn't my thing, but if it floats your boat, that's fine.
Visual representation of the word "Float somebody’s boat"

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