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Sair
1-
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 hot water
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/ɪn hˈɑːt wˈɔːɾɚ/
fraseIdiomInformal

in a situation that has unpleasant consequences for one

example
Exemplo
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The fabric showed signs of contraction after being washed in hot water.
After missing the important client meeting, he found himself in hot water with his boss.
She steeped the tea leaves in hot water to extract their aromatic flavors.
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.

(in|into) hot water
one's back against the wall
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/wˈʌnz bˈæk ɐɡˈɛnst ɔːɹ tə ðə wˈɔːl/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
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The negotiations weren't going well, and it felt like they had their backs to the wall with little room for compromise.
We knew that with so little time and money left to finish the project we had our backs to the wall.
When the company was on the brink of bankruptcy, the CEO had his back against the wall and had to make some tough decisions.
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.

{one's} [back] (against|to) the wall
be (way) in over one's head
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/biː ɪn ˌoʊvɚ wˈʌnz hˈɛd/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
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Accepting the role as team leader felt overwhelming, and she wondered if she was in over her head.
Managing a large-scale construction project was a new experience, and he worried about being way in over his head.
Sean tried to pay his gambling debts, but he was in over his head.
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.

[be] (way|) in over {one's} head
behind the eight ball
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/bɪhˌaɪnd ðɪ ˈeɪt bˈɔːl/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
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Many families in this country are still behind the eight ball and do not enjoy the same standard of living that other people enjoy.
Having to recover from a severe injury put the athlete behind the eight ball in terms of returning to peak performance.
With mounting debts and no savings, they felt like they were constantly behind the eight ball when it came to their financial goals.
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.

behind the eight ball
black hole
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(situação difícil)

(situação difícil)

buraco negro

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/blˈæk hˈoʊl/
fraseIdiom

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.

Informações Gramaticais:

Substantivo Composto
black hole
the odds are stacked against somebody
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/ðə ˈɑːdz kˈɑːɹdz ɑːɹ stˈækt ɐɡˈɛnst ˌɛsbˈiː/
fraseIdiomInformal

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.

the (odds|cards) [are] stacked against {sb}
for the best
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/fɚðə bˈɛst/
fraseIdiom

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

example
Exemplo
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Their breakup was painful, but they both thought it was for the best as they had grown apart.
The chef recommended taking small bites and slowly masticating the steak for the best flavor.
We only buy tomatoes when they are in season for the best flavor.
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.

for the best
in a (pretty) pickle
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/ɪn ɐ pɹˈɪɾi pˈɪkəl/
fraseIdiomInformal

in a situation that presents a serious problem

example
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Forgetting his wallet at home left him in a pretty pickle when it came time to pay the restaurant bill.
We're in a pretty pickle now because the hotel gave our room away.
Her habit of procrastination put her in a pickle as she rushed to complete her assignment at the last minute.
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 (pretty|) pickle
in a (tight) spot
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/ɪn ɐ tˈaɪt spˈɑːt/
fraseDisapprovingIdiom

in a situation that is difficult to deal with

synonymin a tight corner
example
Exemplo
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When her car broke down in a remote area, she was in a spot without cell phone reception or nearby help.
Trying to park in a tight spot, he had to shoehorn the car into the narrow space.
Having lost their passports while traveling, they were in a spot and had to contact their embassy for assistance.
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|) spot
in a tight corner
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/ɪn ɐ tˈaɪt kˈɔːɹnɚ/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

synonymin a spot
example
Exemplo
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The company was in a tight corner due to a sudden drop in sales and needed to come up with a quick solution.
He’s a good man to have around if ever you’re in a tight corner.
During the negotiation, it became clear that they were in a tight corner, with neither side willing to compromise.
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 a tight corner
in dire straits
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/ɪn dˈaɪɚ stɹˈeɪts/
fraseIdiom

a situation with a lot of difficulties

synonymdesperate straits
example
Exemplo
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After losing his job and facing mounting bills, he found himself in dire straits financially.
The firm is in dire straits and may go bankrupt.
The charity provided assistance to families in dire straits, helping them with basic necessities.
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 dire straits
in the grip of something
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/ɪnðə ɡɹˈɪp ʌv ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/
fraseIdiom

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

synonymon the verge of
example
Exemplo
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In the grip of a passionate love affair, she made decisions that she later regretted.
Lebanon remained in the grip of an intense political crisis.
The country was in the grip of a severe economic crisis, affecting everyone's livelihood.
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.

in the grip of {sth}
rabbit hole
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(labirinto confuso)

(labirinto confuso)

situação complexa

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/ɹˈæbɪt hˈoʊl/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
Exemplo
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Researching conspiracy theories on the internet can lead you down a rabbit hole of misinformation and confusion.
Their advice is not meant to send you down a rabbit hole, and involve you in chaos and disorder.
After starting the home renovation project, they found themselves going down a rabbit hole of unexpected problems and costs.
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.

Informações Gramaticais:

Substantivo Composto
rabbit hole
through the wringer
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/θɹuː ðə ɹˈɪŋɚ/
fraseIdiom

experiencing many difficulties or challenges

example
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My mother's recent episode of cancer has really put us through the wringer this year.
Completing a marathon can put a person through the wringer, testing both physical and mental endurance.
After a tough day of interviews, he felt like he had been through the wringer.
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.

through the wringer
troubled waters
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/tɹˈʌbəld wˈɔːɾɚz/
fraseIdiom

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

example
Exemplo
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Their relationship had always been in troubled waters, marked by constant arguments and disagreements.
We don’t want to enter the troubled waters of race and religion.
During the company's financial crisis, some competitors tried to fish in troubled waters by poaching our clients.
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.

troubled waters
up a creek (without a paddle)
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/ˌʌp ɐ ðə kɹˈiːk wɪðˌaʊt ɐ pˈædəl/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
Exemplo
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We'll be up a creek if the car dies on that desolate road ahead.
Customers feel they have been left up the creek without a paddle by the bank.
If we don't address this problem now, we will be up a creek without a paddle in the near future.
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.

up (a|the) creek (without a paddle|)
when the chips are down
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/wˌɛn ðə tʃˈɪps ɑːɹ dˈaʊn/
fraseIdiomInformal

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.

when the chips [are] down
school of hard knocks
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/skˈuːl ʌv hˈɑːɹd nˈɑːks/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
Exemplo
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After several failed business ventures, she gained her knowledge from the school of hard knocks.
Going through a series of personal struggles and setbacks, he learned some of life's most valuable lessons in the school of hard knocks.
He never went to college but the school of hard knocks made him a shrewd businessman.
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.

school of hard knocks
in the same boat
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/ɪnðə sˈeɪm bˈoʊt/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
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In times of economic hardship, many families are in the same boat, struggling to make ends meet.
After the storm, all the neighbors who suffered property damage found themselves in the same boat.
Both of us lost our jobs, so we're in the same boat when it comes to job hunting.
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.

in the same boat
sea legs
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(habilidade de adaptação)

(habilidade de adaptação)

capacidade de adaptação

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/sˈiː lˈɛɡz/
fraseIdiom

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

example
Exemplo
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The team quickly developed their sea legs in the fast-paced work environment and adapted to the company's expectations.
After a few weeks in the new job, Sarah finally found her sea legs and started to feel more confident in her role.
Starting college can be overwhelming, but most students quickly find their sea legs and adjust to the academic demands.
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.

Informações Gramaticais:

Substantivo Composto
sea legs
to make a man (out) of somebody
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/mˌeɪk ɐ mˈæn ˈaʊt ʌv ˌɛsbˈiː/
fraseIdiom

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

example
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His time in the military really made a man of him, teaching discipline and leadership.
I was just a kid when I came out of college, but my first few months at a real job made a man out of me.
The army will soon make a man out of you.
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 [make] a man (out|) of {sb}
to fall to pieces
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/fˈɔːl tə pˈiːsᵻz/
fraseIdiomInformal

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

example
Exemplo
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The breakup with his long-term partner caused him to fall to pieces and isolate himself from others.
After the tragic loss, she fell to pieces and couldn't stop crying.
The team had been struggling all season, and when their star player was injured, their performance fell to pieces.
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 [fall] to pieces
to scratch a living
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/skɹˈætʃ ɔːɹ skɹˈeɪp ɐ lˈɪvɪŋ/
fraseIdiom

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

example
Exemplo
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During the economic downturn, many families had to scrape a living by cutting down on expenses and finding additional sources of income.
The elderly couple scratched a living by collecting recyclables from the streets and selling them.
After losing his job, he had to scratch a living by doing odd jobs around the neighborhood.
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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