“There’s the Rub” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 15, 2024 by Liam Daniel

This reference is about the phrase “there’s the rub” and contains sections on its meaning, examples of usage, and alternative ways to express the same idea.

In this reference, you will learn what the phrase means, examples, and other expressions you can use to say the same thing. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of how to use “there’s the rub” in everyday situations.

There’s The Rub Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “There’s the rub” means there is a difficulty or obstacle in a situation that complicates matters. It highlights hidden challenges that may not be immediately apparent.
There's the Rub Meaning
There’s the Rub Meaning – Created by 7ESL

There’s The Rub Meaning

The phrase “there’s the rub” means that there is a difficulty or obstacle in a situation that complicates things. The word “rub” refers to a hindrance or problem, suggesting that while something may seem straightforward, there is an underlying issue that makes it more complicated.

Origin of this Idiom

The phrase “there’s the rub” originated from the play Hamlet written by William Shakespeare in the year 1599. The phrase was part of the speech given by the title character himself as he was contemplating suicide. The phrase has been used ever since.

Usage of “There’s The Rub”

  • In business decisions:
    • “I’d love to invest in that startup, but their lack of experience is concerning—there’s the rub.”
  • When making plans:
    • “We want to go hiking this weekend, but the weather forecast looks bad—there’s the rub.”
  • In relationships:
    • “I want to spend more time with my friends, but my work schedule is so demanding—there’s the rub.”
  • Discussing a project:
    • “The proposal is solid, but we need more resources to execute it properly—there’s the rub.”
  • In personal goals:
    • “I’m determined to get fit, but finding the time to work out is challenging—there’s the rub.”

In these examples, the phrase is used to emphasize the underlying difficulties or complications that make a situation more complex.

Related Terms to “There’s The Rub”

  • The catch – Refers to a hidden problem or drawback in a situation
  • The crux of the matter – The most important or central point of an issue that is difficult or problematic
  • The hurdle – A challenge or obstacle that must be overcome
  • The downside – The negative aspect or disadvantage of a situation
  • The snag – An unexpected problem or obstacle
  • The fly in the ointment – A minor problem that spoils an otherwise positive situation
  • The complication – An additional factor that makes a situation more difficult
  • The dilemma – A situation in which a difficult choice must be made between two or more options
  • The obstacle – Something that blocks progress or makes it difficult to achieve a goal
  • The issue at hand – The main problem or topic being discussed

Other Ways to Say “There’s The Rub”

As with most phrases, there are multiple ways to say “there’s the rub” and still convey the same meaning. Alternative ways you can say this phrase include:

  • That’s the just of it
  • That’s the situation
  • There’s the problem/or the problematic ramifications

“There’s The Rub” Examples

Example Statements

A statement made in the local paper about planned improvements to the city.

  • “Local officials say that if they don’t fix the problem with the bridge now, the structural integrity of the bridge could further deteriorate. Closing the bridge will cause massive delays on surrounding roads, but is worth the headache to ensure safety. There’s the rub of it.”

A statement made by a celebrity during an interview with a well-known entertainment magazine.

  • “My temper can be quick sometimes and I can be problematic on set. Now, it has cost me a job and is jeopardizing my future in the business. There’s the rub of it.”

Example Conversations

A conversation at a weekly team meeting between team members working on a project.

  • Team member 1: We have some ongoing issues with the project.
  • Team member 2: Yes, the IT department is falling behind on their end.
  • Team member 3: The engineering department is falling way behind as well.
  • Team member 4: If they don’t pick up the pace, then marketing will fall behind as well.
  • Team leader: Hmmm, there’s the rub of it. Okay, I will call a meeting of all the department heads and see how to resolve the problem.

A conversation between a mother, father, and son.

  • Father: Nate, we need to talk.
  • Mother: Yes, your behavior has been out of control lately and it is causing your me and your father to pull our hair out.
  • Son: Really mom? I break curfew once and you’re pulling your hair out?
  • Mother: Don’t backtalk me, Nate! We need to address this!
  • Father: Look, your behavior is just unacceptable. The next time you break curfew, you are grounded for a month. There’s the rub of it! Period! End of discussion!
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