English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Back to the wall
Meaning
The idiom "back to the wall" means that someone is facing a difficult or challenging situation where they feel helpless or trapped. They may feel like they have no other options or choices left, and their back is against the wall. This can also refer to a physical action of leaning against a wall for support.
Usage
- The company was struggling financially and had to lay off many employees, leaving them feeling "back to the wall".
- When my car broke down unexpectedly, I felt like I was "back to the wall" as I didn't have enough money for repairs.
- After failing multiple times to pass her driving test, Sarah felt like she was "back to the wall" and didn't know what to do next.
- My friend's relationship had hit a rough patch and he felt like he was "back to the wall", unsure of where to go from there.
- The pandemic has left many small businesses "back to the wall" as they struggle to survive with limited foot traffic and increased costs. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context, but it generally implies a sense of hopelessness or desperation.
Roots and History
The phrase "back to the wall" dates back to the Middle Ages when knights would use their shields to protect themselves during combat. If they were cornered by an opponent, they would lean against the enemy's shield to buy time for their own sword to strike. This position was also known as the "wall of protection". Over time, the phrase evolved to mean being in a difficult or challenging situation where one feels helpless or trapped. It may have gained popularity during times of war or conflict when people felt like they were under attack from all sides.
Synonyms in English
- Stuck
- Caught in a bind
- Out of options
- At a loss
- Faced with a dilemma
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: En contra de la pared (lit. "against the wall")
- French: À l'armure (lit. "on the armor")
- German: Mit dem Rücken an der Mauer (lit. "with the back against the wall")
- Italian: Con le spalle contro la parete (lit. "with the back against the wall")
- Japanese: 売り手の売り手になっている (lit. "to become a peddler's own peddler")