- Describes a relationship (usually romantic, but sometimes business partnerships) that is experiencing serious difficulties and is in danger of failing or ending.
- Can also literally mean a drink served over ice cubes (whiskey on the rocks), but the context usually makes the meaning clear.
Explanation
Origin
- Nautical imagery. A ship that is on the rocks has run aground on rocks near the shore, is stuck, damaged, and in danger of sinking or breaking apart.
- Metaphorically, a relationship on the rocks is similarly stuck in a dangerous, potentially destructive situation.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Things are messed up between them.
- They're having mad issues.
- It's going south (failing or deteriorating).
- Circling the drain (implying imminent failure)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Their relationship is fucked.
- It's a shitshow.
Milder:
- Facing difficulties
- Experiencing problems
- Having relationship issues
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal. Commonly used in personal conversations.
- Can be used cautiously in business contexts to describe a failing partnership, but might sound slightly informal depending on the audience.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The main potential confusion is with the literal meaning (drink served over ice). Context (talking about relationships vs. ordering drinks) almost always clarifies this. Learners should understand it implies serious trouble, not just minor disagreements.
Examples
- I heard their marriage is on the rocks.
- Their business partnership has been on the rocks ever since the financial disagreement.
- After that huge fight, their relationship felt like it was on the rocks.
Dialogue
Layla: Have you spoken to Sarah and Tom lately? They seem distant.
Mike: Yeah, I had coffee with Sarah last week. She said things are pretty bad between them. Their marriage is on the rocks, apparently.
Layla: Oh no, I had no idea! That's awful. They always seemed so happy.
Mike: I know. Sounds like they've been having problems for a while.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Hearing rumors that the celebrity power couple might be on the rocks. Hope it's not true! 💔 #celebritygossip
- Facebook Post (vague): Life feels a bit on the rocks lately. Trying to stay positive.
- Forum Comment: Their collaboration seemed strong at first, but I think the project is on the rocks now due to funding issues.
Response Patterns
- Concern/Sympathy: Oh no, really? / That's too bad. / I hope they can work it out.
- Question: Why? What happened? / How long has it been like that?
- Confirmation (if gossiping): Yeah, I heard that too.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing a relationship is on the rocks:
- Express concern: That's sad to hear.
- Ask for (appropriate level of) detail: Do you know what the problems are? (Be mindful of gossip vs. genuine concern).
- Speculate on the future: Do you think they'll split up?
Conversation Starter
- No. Describes a difficult situation, usually in response to a question or when sharing news/gossip.
Intonation
- Emphasis often falls on rocks.
- Usually said with a serious, concerned, or gossipy tone. I think their marriage is on the ROCKS.
Generation Differences
- Well-understood across most adult generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.