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in hot water
2-
one's back against the wall
3-
be (way) in over one's head
4-
behind the eight ball
5-
black hole
6-
the odds are stacked against somebody
7-
for the best
8-
in a (pretty) pickle
9-
in a (tight) spot
10-
in a tight corner
11-
in dire straits
12-
in the grip of something
13-
rabbit hole
14-
through the wringer
15-
troubled waters
16-
up a creek (without a paddle)
17-
when the chips are down
18-
school of hard knocks
19-
in the same boat
20-
sea legs
21-
to make a man (out) of somebody
22-
to fall to pieces
23-
to scratch a living
(in|into) hot water
in hot water
fráze
uk flag
/ɪn hˈɑːt wˈɔːɾɚ/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

in a situation that has unpleasant consequences for one

example
Příklad
Click on words
But this poor fellow was always getting into hot water, and if there was a wrong way of doing a thing, was sure to hit upon it.
In recent years, comedians have found themselves in hot water for making politically incorrect topics about everything from race to gender.
What is the origin of the idiom "in hot water" and when to use it?

The idiom "in hot water" originates from the idea of being in a situation where the water is too hot, making it uncomfortable or painful. It is often used to describe a situation in which someone is facing trouble, difficulty, or criticism, often as a result of their actions or decisions.

{one's} [back] (against|to) the wall
one's back against the wall
fráze
uk flag
/wˈʌnz bˈæk ɐɡˈɛnst ɔːɹ tə ðə wˈɔːl/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

in a situation where one has little choice to do what they want or need to

What is the origin of the idiom "one's back against the wall" and when to use it?

The exact origin of the idiom "one's back against the wall" is not definitively documented, but it is a phrase that likely draws from a literal scenario where someone is physically cornered or trapped with their back against a wall, which is a vulnerable and constrained position. Over time, this concept has been figuratively applied to describe situations in which people face extreme pressure, adversity, or limited options.

[be] (way|) in over {one's} head
be (way) in over one's head
fráze
uk flag
/biː ɪn ˌoʊvɚ wˈʌnz hˈɛd/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

to get involved with something that is too difficult for one to handle or get out of

What is the origin of the idiom "be in over one's head" and when to use it?

The idiom "be in over one's head" is related to water and swimming. When someone is in over their head in a pool or body of water, it means they are in a situation that is deeper than their height, and they may struggle to keep afloat or maintain control. Figuratively, this expression is used to describe a situation where someone is facing challenges, responsibilities, or circumstances that are beyond their ability to handle or understand.

behind the eight ball
behind the eight ball
fráze
uk flag
/bɪhˌaɪnd ðɪ ˈeɪt bˈɔːl/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

in a situation that involves difficulty, particularly one that is worse compared to that of others

What is the origin of the idiom "behind the eight ball" and when to use it?

The idiom "behind the eight ball" has its roots in billiards or pool, where being behind the eight ball is a challenging position, as it limits the player's options for their next shot. In a figurative sense, it is used to describe a situation where someone is in a difficult or unfavorable position, often due to past actions or circumstances, and faces an uphill struggle to improve their situation.

black hole
black hole
Podstatné jméno
uk flag
/blˈæk hˈoʊl/
(neutěšitelný stav)

(neutěšitelný stav)

černá díra

Idiom

a difficult state or condition that is not easy to escape from

What is the origin of the idiom "black hole" and when to use it?

The idiom "black hole" is borrowed from the astronomical term that describes a region in space with gravitational forces so strong that nothing, not even light, can escape from it. It is used to describe a situation or condition that is extremely difficult, challenging, or nearly impossible to escape from, often due to its overwhelming nature.

Gramatické Informace:

Složené Podstatné Jméno
the (odds|cards) [are] stacked against {sb}
the odds are stacked against somebody
věta
uk flag
/ðə ˈɑːdz kˈɑːɹdz ɑːɹ stˈækt ɐɡˈɛnst ˌɛsbˈiː/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

used to denote that someone has little chance of success in a given situation

What is the origin of the idiom "the odds are stacked against someone" and when to use it?

The idiom "the odds are stacked against someone" or "the cards are stacked against someone" draws from the world of gambling, where the chances of winning or losing can be influenced by the way cards or dice are arranged or manipulated. In a figurative sense, it describes a situation where someone faces significant obstacles, challenges, or unfavorable circumstances that make their success or victory unlikely.

for the best
for the best
fráze
uk flag
/fɚðə bˈɛst/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

used for saying that something is going to be of advantage despite causing difficulty at the moment

What is the origin of the idiom "for the best" and when to use it?

The idiom "for the best" is used to express the belief or hope that a particular outcome or decision, while possibly challenging or disappointing in the short term, will ultimately lead to a better or more favorable result. It is used to imply that a difficult choice or situation has been made with the intention of achieving a positive or beneficial long-term outcome.

in a (pretty|) pickle
in a (pretty) pickle
fráze
uk flag
/ɪn ɐ pɹˈɪɾi pˈɪkəl/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

in a situation that presents a serious problem

What is the origin of the idiom "in a pickle" and when to use it?

The idiom "in a pickle" has been in use since the 16th century and comes from the Dutch word "pekel," which refers to a solution made from brine or vinegar. It is used to describe a situation where someone is in a difficult or troublesome circumstance, often as a result of their own actions or choices.

in a (tight|) spot
in a (tight) spot
fráze
uk flag
/ɪn ɐ tˈaɪt spˈɑːt/
N/A

N/A

Disapproving
Idiom
Informal

in a situation that is difficult to deal with

What is the origin of the idiom "in a spot" and when to use it?

The idiom "in a spot" originates from the idea of finding oneself in a difficult, challenging, or precarious situation, as if one is in a certain location or "spot" from which it's not easy to extricate oneself. It is commonly used to describe a situation where someone is facing a problem, often unexpectedly, and is uncertain about how to resolve it.

in a tight corner
in a tight corner
fráze
uk flag
/ɪn ɐ tˈaɪt kˈɔːɹnɚ/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

in a difficult situation, particularly one that is not easy to deal with or get out of

What is the origin of the idiom "in a tight corner" and when to use it?

The idiom "in a tight corner" originates from the concept of being in a confined or restricted space where movement is limited, making it difficult to escape or maneuver. It is used to describe a situation where someone is facing a challenging, difficult, or problematic circumstance with limited options and little room to maneuver.

in dire straits
in dire straits
fráze
uk flag
/ɪn dˈaɪɚ stɹˈeɪts/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

a situation with a lot of difficulties

What is the origin of the idiom "in dire straits" and when to use it?

The idiom "in dire straits" has its origins in the nautical world. "Straits" refer to narrow, difficult-to-navigate water passages, and "dire" means extremely serious or urgent. The phrase is used to describe a situation marked by extreme difficulty, danger, or adversity, where someone is facing serious and urgent problems or hardships.

in the grip of {sth}
in the grip of something
fráze
uk flag
/ɪnðə ɡɹˈɪp ʌv ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

used for saying that someone or something is affected or taken over by a very difficult or undesirable situation

What is the origin of the idiom "in the grip of something" and when to use it?

The idiom "in the grip of something" does not have a specific documented origin, but it uses the word "grip" in a figurative sense to describe a situation where someone is strongly affected or controlled by something, such as an emotion, circumstance, or influence. This idiom has been in use for many years to convey the idea of being firmly under the influence or control of a particular force or situation.

rabbit hole
rabbit hole
Podstatné jméno
uk flag
/ɹˈæbɪt hˈoʊl/
(zmatek)

(zmatek)

černá díra

Idiom
Informal

a situation marked by complexity, confusion, or strangeness, which is often difficult to escape from

What is the origin of the idiom "rabbit hole" and when to use it?

The idiom "rabbit hole" is a reference to Lewis Carroll's famous book, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," where Alice follows a rabbit down a hole into a whimsical and bewildering world. In a figurative sense, it is used to describe a situation marked by complexity, confusion, or strangeness, often difficult to escape from, where one becomes deeply involved in something unexpected or complex.

Gramatické Informace:

Složené Podstatné Jméno
through the wringer
through the wringer
fráze
uk flag
/θɹuː ðə ɹˈɪŋɚ/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

experiencing many difficulties or challenges

What is the origin of the idiom "through the wringer" and when to use it?

The idiom "through the wringer" originates from the process of using a wringer, a mechanical device used to squeeze excess water from clothing, typically after washing. In a figurative sense, this expression is used to describe the experience of going through a challenging or demanding situation, often leaving an individual exhausted, emotionally drained, or thoroughly tested.

troubled waters
troubled waters
fráze
uk flag
/tɹˈʌbəld wˈɔːɾɚz/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

a situation that is filled with a lot of problems, confusion, or disorganization

What is the origin of the idiom "troubled waters" and when to use it?

The idiom "troubled waters" derives from the literal idea of water that is turbulent, stormy, or agitated, often making navigation challenging and dangerous. In a figurative sense, it is used to describe a situation marked by difficulties, unrest, or turmoil.

up (a|the) creek (without a paddle|)
up a creek (without a paddle)
fráze
uk flag
/ˌʌp ɐ ðə kɹˈiːk wɪðˌaʊt ɐ pˈædəl/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

used to convey that one is in a difficult or challenging situation without a clear solution

What is the origin of the idiom "up a creek" and when to use it?

The idiom "up a creek" is derived from the idea of finding oneself in a difficult or unfavorable situation, often without any obvious solution or means of escape. It suggests being in a predicament where one is facing challenges or obstacles they cannot overcome.

when the chips [are] down
when the chips are down
fráze
uk flag
/wˌɛn ðə tʃˈɪps ɑːɹ dˈaʊn/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

used for referring to the time at which a situation gets really problematic, serious, or challenging

What is the origin of the idiom "when the chips are down" and when to use it?

The idiom "when the chips are down" originates from the world of gambling, where "chips" represent one's bets or stakes. In this context, it is used to refer to a situation in which one is facing a challenging or difficult situation, often when one's circumstances are at their most critical.

school of hard knocks
school of hard knocks
fráze
uk flag
/skˈuːl ʌv hˈɑːɹd nˈɑːks/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

tough, real-life experiences and challenges that one faces in life, often resulting in practical knowledge

What is the origin of the idiom "school of hard knocks" and when to use it?

The idiom "school of hard knocks" refers to the tough, real-life experiences and challenges that people face as they navigate through life. It is used to emphasize the idea that one's education and understanding are gained through difficult and often painful lessons learned from life's hardships and adversities.

in the same boat
in the same boat
fráze
uk flag
/ɪnðə sˈeɪm bˈoʊt/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

in an unpleasant or difficult situation as same as what another person is experiencing

What is the origin of the idiom "in the same boat" and when to use it?

The idiom "in the same boat" draws from the literal idea of people sharing a common situation, particularly when it's a challenging or unfavorable one. It is used to say that individuals are facing similar circumstances or difficulties and can empathize with one another.

sea legs
sea legs
Podstatné jméno
uk flag
/sˈiː lˈɛɡz/
(získat stabilitu)

(získat stabilitu)

naučit se přizpůsobit

Idiom

a person's ability to adjust to a new or unfamiliar situation

What is the origin of the idiom "sea legs" and when to use it?

The idiom "sea legs" originates from the early days of sea travel, describing a person's ability to walk steadily on a moving ship without stumbling or getting seasick. It first appeared in English in the early 1600s, referring to how sailors and passengers had to adapt to the constant motion of the sea. Today, the phrase is used more broadly to describe someone's ability to adjust to a new or unfamiliar circumstances, such as a new job, environment, or any situation that feels challenging at first but becomes easier with experience.

Gramatické Informace:

Složené Podstatné Jméno
to [make] a man (out|) of {sb}
to make a man (out) of somebody
fráze
uk flag
/mˌeɪk ɐ mˈæn ˈaʊt ʌv ˌɛsbˈiː/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

(of a difficult situation) to make a man tougher or more responsible

What is the origin of the idiom "make a man of someone" and when to use it?

The phrase "make a man of someone" has its origins in older ideas of what it means to transition from boyhood to manhood, typically involving the development of maturity, responsibility, and qualities associated with being an adult. Figuratively, it is now used to describe the process of helping someone, often a young person, grow and develop into a responsible, capable, and mature individual.

to [fall] to pieces
to fall to pieces
fráze
uk flag
/fˈɔːl tə pˈiːsᵻz/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

to experience a strong emotional or mental struggle, where someone feels overwhelmed, upset, and unable to handle their emotions

What is the origin of the idiom "fall to pieces" and when to use it?

The idiom "fall to pieces" likely originates from the visual image of something physically breaking apart or disintegrating into smaller, unmanageable parts. In a figurative sense, it is used to describe a situation where an individual experiences a profound emotional or mental struggle, feeling overwhelmed, upset, and unable to handle their emotions.

to scratch a living
fráze
uk flag
/skɹˈætʃ ɔːɹ skɹˈeɪp ɐ lˈɪvɪŋ/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

to have or earn just enough money or resources to meet basic needs and survive

What is the origin of the idiom "scratch a living" and when to use it?

The idiom "scratch a living" likely originates from the idea of scratching or scraping the ground in search of sustenance or resources, reminiscent of how animals might forage for food. It conveys the notion of barely managing to survive by making do with whatever resources are available, often in difficult or challenging circumstances.

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