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get the short end of the stick

Meaning: to receive unfair treatment; to get the worse deal.

Language: English

Literally: to get the short end of the stick

Category: Daily Life

Origin: Drawing lots with unequal sticks; shorter stick meant bad outcome.

More idioms — Daily Life

  • no love lost — mutual dislike; bad relations between people.
  • throw in the towel — to give up; to concede defeat.
  • the real McCoy — the genuine article; something authentic and high quality.
  • get a kick out of something — to enjoy something greatly; to find something amusing.
  • run it up the flagpole — to test an idea; to present something for approval or feedback.
  • Mad as a hatter — Completely eccentric or unhinged.

More English idioms

  • fit as a fiddle — in excellent physical condition; healthy.
  • take the plunge — to commit to something risky; to make a decisive move.
  • a nose for something — a talent for finding or recognizing something; keen instinct.
  • keep your chin up — to remain optimistic; to stay courageous during difficulty.
  • pitter-patter of little feet — the sound of children running; anticipation of having babies.
  • be in someone's shoes — to understand someone's perspective; to experience their situation.

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