in a stew
1
in a very troubled or nervous state
The origin of the idiom"come apart at the seams" can be attributed to the literal sense of garments or fabrics unraveling along the seams. When the sewing or stitching holding the seams together fails, the fabric starts to separate, causing the item to come apart. This literal usage of the phrase has been in existence since at least the 19th century. This expression is frequently used in discussions about the deterioration of relationships, the unraveling of carefully constructed plans, or the collapse of structures or systems that were once thought to be stable.
- The organization is coming apart at the seams due to internal conflicts and a lack of leadership.
- My stress levels are so high that it feels like I'm coming apart at the seams.
- The carefully constructed plan came apart at the seams when unexpected obstacles derailed the project.
- Their relationship came apart at the seams after years of unresolved issues and constant arguments.
- If we don't address the underlying problems, the team will come apart at the seams during the upcoming merger.