Problems and Difficulties Idioms

Here are some common idioms that we use to describe problems and difficulties:

(An) Uphill Climb

• Meaning: A difficult process
• Example: Winning back our trust after stealing is going to be an uphill climb, but we think you can do it if you’re careful to act with honesty.

(The) Last Straw

• Meaning: The final problem that makes someone lose patience or give up
• Example: I was already having a bad day, and when my computer crashed, it was the last straw.

Above Water

• Meaning: Not in debt or financial trouble
• Example: We had to get a loan to start our business, but now we’re finally above water.

Come Out in the Wash

• Meaning: To be resolved or become clear over time
• Example: I know there are some issues with the project, but I’m sure everything will come out in the wash.

Cut Corners

• Meaning: To do something in a way that saves time or money but is not the best way
• Example: We’re on a tight deadline, but we can’t cut corners on safety.

Cut the Gordian Knot

• Meaning: To solve or remove a problem in a direct or forceful way, rejecting gentler or more indirect methods
• Example: Let’s cut the Gordian knot in dealing with such a complicated matter.

Get To Grips With

• Meaning: To start to understand or deal with a difficult situation
• Example: It took me a while to get to grips with the new software, but now I’m starting to feel more comfortable with it.

Head (Go) South

• Meaning: To go wrong or become worse
• Example: Everything was going well until the new manager took over, and then everything started to head south.

In a Jam

• Meaning: In a difficult or uncomfortable situation
• Example: I’m in a jam because I promised to be in two places at once.

In Hot Water

• Meaning: In trouble or facing consequences for something you did
• Example: I’m in hot water with my boss because I missed an important deadline.

Red Tape

• Meaning: Bureaucratic rules and regulations that make it difficult to get things done
• Example: We’re trying to get a permit for the new building, but we’re stuck in red tape.

Start with a Clean Slate

• Meaning: To start fresh, without any past mistakes or problems
• Example: Let’s put the past behind us and start with a clean slate.

Stumbling Block

• Meaning: Something that prevents progress or causes difficulty
• Example: The lack of funding is a major stumbling block for our research project.

Think Outside the Box

• Meaning: To approach a problem in a new and unconventional way
• Example: We need to think outside the box if we want to come up with a solution to this complex issue.

There’s the Rub