English Explanatory Dictionary

in a cleft stick

English dictionary entry

Meanings

prep_phrase
  1. In a difficult situation, unable to choose between unfavourable options; in a dilemma.
  2. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see in, cleft, stick.

Pronunciation

EN-AU ck1 in a cleft stick.ogg

Word forms

in a cleft stick

Etymology

From the metaphor of being caught in a tight position, unable to move.

Synonyms

on the horns of a dilemma between a rock and a hard place between Scylla and Charybdis between the devil and the deep blue sea between the hammer and the anvil between two fires damned if one does and damned if one doesn't doomed if you do doomed if you don't in a cleft stick in bad bread
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