Caught between two stools

Meaning

The idiom "caught between two stools" means to be in a difficult situation where one has to make an unpleasant choice, often because both options are equally undesirable or have negative consequences. It can also mean being stuck or trapped between two conflicting situations or ideas.

Usage

• I'm caught between two stools - having to choose between staying loyal to my job and going for a promotion that could put me at odds with my team leader.
• The company is caught between two stools - trying to keep up with the competition while also meeting customer demands for quality products.
• The new law is caught between two stools - trying to balance the rights of individuals with the need for public safety.
• The political candidate is caught between two stools - appealing to the left and right voters without alienating either side.
• I'm caught between two stools - trying to decide whether to stay in my current relationship or end it and start anew.

Roots and History

The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear, but one theory suggests that it comes from the idea of being trapped or stuck between two objects, such as two logs or poles. Another theory suggests that it may have roots in Old English, where "stool" referred to a beam or crossbar. The first recorded use of this idiom was in the 16th century in England, and its usage has since spread throughout the English-speaking world.

Synonyms in English

• Stuck between a rock and a hard place
• In a difficult position
• In a bind
• At a crossroads
• Between a rock and a hard place

Synonyms in other languages

• En situation intermédiaire - French
• 中间地位 - Chinese
• לעבד שנים שפוהנים אשרךמים - Hebrew
• سیاید برستی - Persian
• لا يقومن بين الضعفين - Arabic

Similar Idioms

• catch-22

• come over

• card up sleeve