The phrase "fatigue catch flies" may appear confusing to some due to its irregular spelling. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /fəˌtiɡ kætʃ flaɪz/, with the stress on the first syllable of "fatigue". The reason for this spelling is that "fatigue" is pronounced with three syllables, not two as it may appear. Additionally, "catch" is spelled with a "tch" rather than "ch" due to the "i" in "fatigue" affecting its pronunciation. Overall, understanding the phonetic transcription can help clarify this seemingly odd spelling.
"Fatigue catch flies" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of extreme tiredness or fatigue, where one is so exhausted that they become oblivious to their surroundings and are unable to focus or pay attention to what is happening around them. It implies a level of weariness that is so profound that even simple tasks or stimuli go unnoticed or are ignored.
The phrase derives from the observation that flies are often attracted to decaying or rotten substances, and when one is fatigued to the point of being unaware of their surroundings, they may resemble a lifeless or stagnant environment, which can inadvertently serve as an attraction for flies.
This expression is often used to indicate a person's inability to stay alert or awake due to physical or mental exhaustion. It suggests that the individual's energy and attention reserves have been depleted, resulting in a reduced ability to remain engaged or attentive.
The phrase "fatigue catch flies" is figurative rather than literal, as it does not refer to the actual act of catching flies. Instead, it serves as a metaphor for being so drained and fatigued that one becomes unresponsive or unaware of their surroundings.