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In a pickle

In a pickle

(In a difficult situation)
The phrase originated in the late 16th century, from the Dutch word 'pekel', meaning 'brine'. In this context, 'pickle' means 'a disagreeable position'.
I am in a real pickle, I lost my job and can't pay my bills.
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📖 Meanings

  • 1.

    In a dilemma

  • 2.

    In a messy or challenging situation

  • 3.

    In a trouble

  • 4.

    In a state of confusion or uncertainty

💬 Examples

  • 1.

    He found himself in a pickle when he forgot his wedding anniversary.

  • 2.

    The team is in a pickle after losing their star player to an injury.

  • 3.

    The country is in a pickle due to the economic crisis.

  • 4.

    I was in a pickle trying to decide between the two job offers.

🗞️ Etymology

  • 1.

    The phrase was first used in 'The Tempest', a play by William Shakespeare.

  • 2.

    In the early 19th century, the phrase was used in the context of 'being preserved', as pickles are preserved in brine.

  • 3.

    The phrase gained popularity in the US in the 20th century.

  • 4.

    In modern English, 'in a pickle' has come to mean 'in a difficult situation'.

🔁 Synonyms

  • 1.

    In a tight spot

  • 2.

    In a jam

  • 3.

    In a fix

  • 4.

    In a bind

  • 5.

    In a hole

🌀 Variants

  • 1.

    In a real pickle

  • 2.

    Find oneself in a pickle

  • 3.

    Get into a pickle

  • 4.

    End up in a pickle

  • 5.

    Stuck in a pickle