Why do people always say, "There are plenty of fish in the sea"?

Question

I don't get it. I mean, look! *taps foot on ground* I live on land. Not in the sea. And two, I am a woman. I don't want a fish!!!! I want another woman! *crawls into bed and gets into fetal position* I DON'T WANT A FISH!!!

Answer 1

*groans* You know why.

It's not to be taken literally.

There are millions, billions of people.

Plenty of choices.

Plenty of fish.

>.<

Answer 2

Well, saying there are plenty of bugs in the bushes isn't very appealing now, is it?

Answer 3

Haha Im bored too...have my last exam tomorrow, Im meant to be studying but Im answering your VERY INTERESTING question and watching LOVING ANNABELLE MUSIC VIDZ on youtube.

Oh and Im eating a salad, but want coffee- but I dont think we have milk...*grrr*, that ticks me off. Oh if you've got a cold, try having some honey and brandy. :) Not too much though...or you could...

And this Sarah McLachlan song "Fallen" is making me think of her...

Answer 4

Because it smells like old fish.

Answer 5

I take it to mean that no matter what bait you use, something will bite.

Btw, I'm a guy.

Hugs.

Answer 6

If there were "plenty of fish in the sea" I wouldn't be single.

lol

I honestly hate when people say this, it's just one of those cliche things people say to make you feel better. =/

Answer 7

It's just a fancy way of saying there are too many people out there to be stressing over one person. Maybe I should use that advice myself.

Answer 8

That saying is almost redundant anyway, there aren't plenty more fish in the sea!  

Answer 9

Well, those people won't be saying that much longer considering the seas are 'emptying out' at a record rate...and, when they're as lifeless as some people seem to be, then the seas can say 'there are plenty of stupid greedy people in the world'...it's only right...

Answer 10

I know it.  Hearing that phrase makes me cringe.  And the imagery, despite it being an analogy, is of a fish.  Which is gross.

Answer 11

Here's a bit of trivia for you. In the Finale of "The Mikado" by Gilbert and Sullivan, there's a line about plenty of fish in the sea. I know you know what it means, just thought it was interesting that the phrase has been around since 1885 at least.

I usually say "there are plenty of c***s in the yard."  

Answer 12

Like some other people on here have said so far, that saying is redundant.

And like you, I don't like fish *cringes at the thought*

Answer 13

i want a fish :(

Answer 14

This is usually said by people to console someone, who has been spurned by a lover. It is meant well, so you should take it in the spirit it is intended.