IdiomFood & Drink
English
Englishin a pickle
Meaning: In a difficult situation.
Example: “I locked my keys in the car and now I'm in a pickle.”
Origin: Probably from the Dutch "in de pekel zitten," to sit in the brine. Shakespeare uses "in such a pickle" in The Tempest (around 1611).
Equivalents in other languages
French: Dans le pétrin Literally: In the kneading trough
More English idioms
- have one's work cut out To face a difficult task.
- mum's the word Keep this secret; say nothing.
- hale and hearty Healthy and strong, especially in old age.
- find one's sea legs To get used to a boat's movement; to grow comfortable in a new situation.
- break a leg Good luck, said to a performer before going on stage.
- hey presto Said when something happens suddenly, as if by magic.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Você tem muita garra You have fierce, relentless determination — you claw your way through any obstacle.
- Ты умница (ty umnitsa) You're bright, clever, and admirable — said warmly of someone who handles things well.
- У тебя золотые руки (u tebya zolotye ruki) You're extraordinarily skilled — able to make or fix anything with your hands.
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