English Idiom: In a Pickle Meaning and Origin

We all have the experience of being in big trouble because of what we did. Usually, we make a mistake that can’t be easily solved. When you are in that kind of situation, you can say that you were in a pickle. It’s a commonly used English expression that will help improve your conversation skills and vocabulary if you know the definition and the origin. Continue reading to learn the meaning and origin of “in a pickel.”

English Idiom: In a Pickle

How well do you know idioms? If English is not your first language, this kind of expression can be tougher to learn at first. They are not really intuitive or straightforward.

For example, you might know what a pickle is but still “in a pickle” will confuse you because it doesn’t make sense! That’s why it is important to know the meaning of the whole phrase. Also, knowing the origin can help you remember.

In a Pickle Origin

The first use of “in a pickle” was found as early as the 1500s. There was originally the expression “sitting in a pickle” which meant to be drunk. Later, the expression changed to in a pickle and now refers to any difficult situation.

In a Pickle Meaning

In a pickle describes someone in a difficult situation that cannot easily be solved. For example, if you broke an example furniture that can’t be replaced easily at your friend’s house, your are in a pickle! How will resolve that problem?

When is In a Pickle Used?

You might wonder when and where you will hear this expression. It can be used in any tought situation. You will often hear this expression during a baseball game. If the runner is trapped between two based in a rundown, the commentator could say that the runner is in a pickle.

In a Pickle Examples

Here are some examples of in a pickle used in a sentence.

• I failed my final exam. I’m in a pickle.
• He’s in a pickle because he got caught lying to his mom. He’s probably going to be grounded.
• If I don’t get paid by Friday I will be in a pickle. I have bills to pay!

Other Expressions and Idioms

If you want to improve your vocabulary and English speaking skills, check out more English idioms:

• In Deep Water Meaning
• Halloween Expressions
• Eat Humble Pie
• Beat Around the Bush
• More English Expressions

FAQs About In a Pickle

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the English idiom in a pickle and its meaning.

What does it mean to be in a pickle?

To be in a pickle means to be in a tough situation that is hard to solve.

Where does the expression in a pickle come from?

The expression in a pickle was found to be first used in the 1500s. It originally meant to be drunk (which can also be a difficult situation for some people!).

Did William Shakespeare say I’m in a pickle?

William Shakespeare was one of the first people to use the expression “in a pickle” in the print. He popularized the term by using it in The Tempest (1610).

In a Pickle Meaning: Join the Conversation

What are your thoughts on this English expression? Have you ever head someone saying it? If not, that’s still fine. You learned something new! Try making a sentence on your own using in a pickel. That way, you will memorize it more easily. If there is another idiom you want to learn, let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!