The phrase "out of its element" is often used to describe something that is not well suited or comfortable in a particular situation or environment. It is pronounced /aʊt əv ɪts ˈɛləmənt/ with a diphthong in the first syllable and a schwa sound in the second syllable of "out". The "ts" sound in "its" is also pronounced as a voiceless consonant. Similarly, the first syllable of "element" is pronounced with a schwa sound while the second syllable has the stress and a short "e" sound.
The phrase "out of its element" refers to a situation where someone or something is not in its natural or usual environment, and therefore struggles or feels uncomfortable or ill-suited to perform or adapt to the given circumstances. It implies being removed from one's comfort zone or area of expertise.
When applied to people, it suggests a state of being unfamiliar, inexperienced, or unprepared for a particular setting or task. For instance, an individual who excels in a structured office environment may feel out of their element when asked to perform tasks that require improvisation or creativity. Similarly, a person who is accustomed to urban surroundings may feel out of their element in a rural or remote area due to their lack of familiarity with the natural environment.
This phrase can also be used to describe objects or entities that are not functioning optimally or as intended due to being misplaced or misused. For example, a fish out of its element is a metaphor for a fish taken out of water, which symbolizes vulnerability and an inability to thrive in unfamiliar conditions.
Overall, "out of its element" describes a state of being or situation in which someone or something is operating outside their natural or accustomed sphere, leading to a sense of unease, inefficiency, or a loss of effectiveness.