Tag Archives: difficult

Idiom of the day

Over someone’s head

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Meaning: Something that is too complex, difficult, or advanced for someone to understand or grasp.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “The professor’s explanation went over my head; I’ll need to review the basics.”
  2. “That joke went over her head because it relied on cultural references she didn’t know.”
  3. “This technical manual is over my head—I think I’ll need an expert to explain it.”

Origin:
The phrase paints the image of something figuratively soaring above a person, out of reach or comprehension. It’s commonly used to describe situations where understanding is just beyond someone’s current knowledge or experience.

Over someone's head
Idiom of the day

Uphill battle

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Meaning: This idiom refers to a difficult struggle or challenge that requires a lot of effort to overcome. It implies that achieving success will not be easy and will involve significant obstacles.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Convincing the board to approve the new policy will be an uphill battle.”
  2. “Recovering from the economic downturn is proving to be an uphill battle for many small businesses.”
  3. “She faced an uphill battle in her career, working hard to overcome numerous setbacks and discrimination.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “uphill battle” likely comes from the physical challenge of fighting or moving uphill, which is much more strenuous than moving on flat ground or downhill. The steep incline represents the difficulties and obstacles that make progress slower and more challenging. This metaphor has been adopted into everyday language to describe any situation that requires extra effort and perseverance to achieve success.

Uphill battle
Idiom of the day

Walk a tightrope

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Meaning: This idiom means to be in a situation where one must be very careful and balance various factors to avoid trouble or failure. It implies navigating a difficult or risky situation with precision and caution.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “As a manager, she has to walk a tightrope between keeping the staff happy and meeting company targets.”
  2. “Negotiating the peace deal requires diplomats to walk a tightrope, balancing both sides’ demands.”
  3. “Balancing work and family commitments often feels like walking a tightrope for many parents.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “walk a tightrope” comes from the literal act of tightrope walking, a performance skill in which an acrobat walks along a thin, tightly stretched wire or rope. This act requires extreme balance, focus, and caution to avoid falling. The metaphorical use of the phrase draws on this imagery to describe any situation that requires careful balancing of various elements to avoid negative consequences. The idiom has been in use since at least the 19th century and effectively conveys the idea of managing a precarious situation.

Walk a tightrope
Idiom of the day

Keep your head above water

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Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of managing to survive or cope with a difficult or challenging situation, especially when facing financial, emotional, or other hardships. It implies staying afloat or maintaining one’s stability and resilience despite adversity or difficulties.

Usage in Example Sentences:

  1. “Despite the financial struggles, they managed to keep their heads above water by cutting expenses and finding additional sources of income.”
  2. “She’s been working two jobs to keep her head above water and support her family.”
  3. “The company is struggling, but they’re doing their best to keep their heads above water and avoid bankruptcy.”

Origin: The origin of the idiom “keep your head above water” is literal, referring to the act of staying afloat while swimming to prevent drowning. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression used to describe the ability to survive or cope with challenging circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of resilience, determination, and perseverance in overcoming difficulties and maintaining stability.