Question about a line in the X-files

[Anonymous]

When I was watching the X-files, someone got into a crucial
condtion. And a doctor said,

"UP TO HIS ASS IN ALLIGATORS."

What does this mean?

[Casiopea]

When I was watching the X-files, someone got into a crucial condtion. And a doctor said,

"UP TO HIS ASS IN ALLIGATORS."

What does this mean?

Someone was in critical condition. He was in deep trouble.

[MikeNewYork]

When I was watching the X-files, someone got into a crucial
condtion. And a doctor said,

"UP TO HIS ASS IN ALLIGATORS."

What does this mean?

We have a saying: When you're up to your ass in alligators it is difficult to remember that the original objective was to drain the swamp.

That means that the development of serious or critical problems diverts one's attention from one's main goal. :wink: