at a pinch

Meaning: In an urgent or difficult situation, when no better alternative is available or when resources are scarce.

Example: “The sofa bed can sleep two people at a pinch.”

Origin: Origin uncertain; the phrase pictures being squeezed or pinched by circumstances, with just barely enough to manage.

More English idioms

at latter Lammas Never; at a time that will never come.
go overboard To exceed reasonable limits; to do something to an excessive, unrestrained, or reckless d…
straight from the horse's mouth Information received directly from the original source, without intermediaries.
thin the herd To reduce the size of a group by removing members, typically the weakest or least product…
I have a bridge to sell you A sarcastic way of saying that someone is gullible or easily deceived.
fall into place To become suddenly clear and fully understood when separate elements finally align.

Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.

Du bist ein Goldstück You're a real gem — priceless, irreplaceable, and deeply appreciated.
Du hast ein Händchen dafür You have a real knack — a natural gift that makes difficult things look easy.
Du hast Köpfchen You're sharp and clever — you use your brain well.

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