The expression "higher than a kite" is commonly used to describe someone who is extremely intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. The phonetic transcription of this expression in IPA is /ˈhaɪ.ər ðæn ə kaɪt/. The spelling of this phrase follows standard English phonetics, with the emphasis on the first syllable of "higher" and the second syllable of "kite." The phrase's colloquial origins likely influenced its grammar, with the use of "than" rather than "as" for comparison.
"Higher than a kite" is a colloquial phrase used to describe someone who is extremely intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, particularly to the point of visible impairment. The expression draws a metaphorical comparison between the person's altered state and the high altitude reached by a kite in flight.
This idiom suggests a state of being excessively inebriated or drugged, often leading to a loss of control, impaired judgment, and an altered perception of reality. The phrase implies that the individual is experiencing a level of intoxication that surpasses the norm. It typically refers to the effects of substances such as alcohol, illegal drugs, or even prescription medications taken recreationally or in excessive amounts.
When someone is described as "higher than a kite," it conveys a sense of extreme disorientation and a detachment from the immediate environment. This state is often characterized by slurred speech, unsteady movements, bloodshot eyes, and a lack of coherent thought or logical reasoning.
The phrase can be considered a slang term, used informally in casual conversations or narratives, and is not typically employed in formal or academic settings. It conveys a vivid image to emphasize the degree of intoxication or drug-induced state of the individual, highlighting the severity of their impairment.