Out to lunch

usgb
phrase

Someone is not paying attention or is not here.

I tried to explain to him but he was totally out to lunch.
Visual representation of "out to lunch" - Someone is not paying attention or is not here.

Often appears as...

  • completely out to lunch
  • totally out to lunch

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "out to lunch"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase is not about eating, but suggests someone's mind is elsewhere.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
During the meeting, Joe seemed out to lunch.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Setting

It's casual language and fits best in informal dialogue or narration.

Illustration for Informal Setting
When talking about quantum physics, I'm out to lunch.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Figurative Interpretation

Understand it's a figure of speech for not being mentally present.

Illustration for Figurative Interpretation
Ask her later; she's out to lunch right now.
Visual representation of the word "Out to lunch"

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