Fish deh a sea, dem nuh know seh water hot
Also spelled: fish deh a sea dem nuh know water hot, fish inna sea nuh know seh water hot
Meaning
Those in the middle of a situation may not realise how serious or dangerous it is. Like fish swimming in water that is heating around them, people can be unaware of the peril they are already in.
Examples
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“Dem keep gwaan reckless like nothing wrong. Fish deh a sea, dem nuh know seh water hot.”
They keep on recklessly as if nothing is wrong. Those in it don't realise how dangerous it's become.
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“By di time dem notice, it too late. Fish deh a sea, dem nuh know seh water hot.”
By the time they notice, it's too late. They didn't see the danger they were in.
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“Di whole country inna trouble but people a live like normal. Fish deh a sea, dem nuh know seh water hot.”
The whole country is in trouble but people carry on as normal. Those inside don't feel the heat.
Origin
A sea image natural to an island people: fish surrounded by water do not perceive its rising heat, standing for those blind to the danger closing in around them.
How it's used
Used to describe complacency or lack of awareness in the midst of danger.