In a pickle

Meaning

The idiom "in a pickle" means to be in a difficult or unpleasant situation, often one that is hard to escape from or get out of. It can also mean being in a state of confusion or disarray.

Usage

• After the company went bankrupt, many employees found themselves "in a pickle".
• The sudden change in weather left the hikers "in a pickle" when they were caught in a thunderstorm without shelter.
• When she realized her passport was missing, Sarah felt like she was "in a pickle".
• The car broke down on the highway, leaving the family "in a pickle" as they had to call for roadside assistance.
• The new employee struggled to keep up with the fast pace of work and felt "in a pickle".

Roots and History

The idiom "in a pickle" is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. It was originally used to describe someone who was in a difficult or unpleasant situation, but it's not clear where the phrase came from specifically. One theory suggests that it may have been influenced by the idea of being stuck in a jar of pickles. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has expanded to include situations that are more difficult or challenging than just being stuck in a jar of pickles. It's now commonly used to describe any situation that is hard to escape from or get out of.

Synonyms in English

• In a fix
• In a bind
• Stuck in a rut
• Up against a wall
• Caught in a conundrum

Synonyms in other languages

• French: En rupture (meaning "in rupture" or "broken")
• Spanish: En traves (meaning "in trouble" or "in a bind")
• Italian: In difficoltà (meaning "in difficulty" or "struggling")
• German: Verwickelt (meaning "entangled" or "complicated")
• Portuguese: Em dificuldade (meaning "in difficulty" or "struggling")

Similar Idioms

• in the pink

• it’s better to be safe than sorry

• eat like a horse