The phrase "sowed one's wild oats" colloquially refers to a period of youthful indiscretion, particularly in terms of sexual behavior or experimentation. Synonyms for this phrase include "had one's fling," "played the field," "lived it up," "enjoyed oneself," and "indulged in adventure." Other terms might include "embraced freedom," "rebelled against convention," or "let loose." Regardless of the phrasing, the idea is that a person is sowing their metaphorical "seeds" of exploration and discovery before settling down into a more stable lifestyle. This phrase has been used for generations to describe the experiences of young people as they navigate the transition into adulthood.