out of element

out of (one's) element

Uncomfortable in a certain situation because it is not the one with which one has experience, familiarity, or expertise (i.e. one's "element"). She usually just orders takeout, so she's really out of her element in the kitchen. I know you're out of your element in this new school, but you'll make friends soon, and things will get better. I asked Alex to consult on this project because I'm out of my element here.See also: element, of, out

*out of one's element

Fig. not in a natural or comfortable situation. (*Typically: be ~; get ~.) When it comes to computers, I'm out of my element. Sally's out of her element in math.See also: element, of, out