in a pickle

Meaning: In a difficult situation.

Language: English

Literally: (Already vivid in English)

Example: “I locked my keys in the car and now I'm in a pickle.”

Category: Food & Drink

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

jam tomorrow — A promise of good things in the future that never arrive.
no picnic — Not easy or pleasant.
a poisoned chalice — Something that seems attractive but brings trouble to whoever accepts it.
think the moon is made of green cheese — To be very gullible.
grab a bite — To eat something quickly.
work for peanuts — To work for very little pay.

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.

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.