To be in the same difficult situation or facing the same problems as someone else.
This nautical metaphor dates back to the 16th century and draws from the reality that everyone aboard a ship shares the same fate - if the boat sinks, everyone goes down together. The phrase emphasizes shared circumstances and mutual dependence.
The maritime origin reflects humanity's long relationship with sea travel, where social distinctions mattered little when facing storms or shipwrecks. It's a democratizing metaphor - whether you're the captain or a passenger, the ocean treats everyone equally, making it perfect for expressing solidarity in difficult times.
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