Language of the Day: Idioms for Difficult Situations
Today we’ll look at some idioms that can be used to describe difficult situations!
Idioms can be one of the most difficult parts of learning a language because the meaning of idioms cannot always be understood from the literal definitions of the words within it. Learning idioms takes time and practice as well as memorization!
Here are some examples of idioms that can used to describe difficult situations!
“Oh, no I’ve missed the last bus home! I’m really in a jam now.” (in a difficult situation)
“Getting to work today was a nightmare. All the trains were cancelled.” (very difficult or unpleasant)
“The peeling wallpaper was just the tip of the iceberg. The house needed so many repairs.” (a small, visible part of a larger problem)
“I have been offered a more interesting job, but the pay is terrible. I’m caught between a rock and hard place.” (facing a choice between two bad options)
“Rosa was thrown in the deep end when her first shift at the restaurant was on one of the busiest days of the year.” (put in a difficult situation with no time to prepare)
“I’m in a bit of a tight spot because my boss just asked me to work late tonight but tonight’s also my birthday party.” (in a difficult or awkward situation)
“I can’t believe you’ve upset your sister again! I’m the one who has to pick up the pieces.” (try to make a situation better after something bad has happened)
“Tina was in a no-win situation. Her son wanted a beach vacation, but her daughter wanted to go skiing.” (a difficult situation with no possibility of a positive outcome)
“The protestors want to stop the building from being demolished, but they’re fighting a losing battle.” (trying to achieve something that is very unlikely)
“The plumber got to the bottom of what’s causing the leak. We need to replace the pipe.” (found out what is causing a problem or situation)
