Trouble Idioms

Page 4 of 4

trouble shared is trouble halved

Meaning: the intensity of the issue can be lowered down by discussion

Example: Don't hesitate to share your problems with me. After all, a problem shared is a problem halved. Read more ➺


troubled waters

Meaning: a difficult phase of life

Example: The situation was getting worse, but like all the other members of the company, he was fascinated by troubled waters. Read more ➺


knight in shining armour

Meaning: used to describe someone who saves you from a difficult situation

Example: Thank you so much for fixing my flat tire. You are a knight in shining armour. Read more ➺


back against the wall

Meaning: to be in a tough situation with limited options

Example: The company has its back against the wall and if the employees do not help out now, it will be bankrupt soon. Read more ➺


batten down the hatches

Meaning: to get ready for trouble

Example: The army is wise to batten down the hatches near the border when our neighbouring country seems to be so hostile. Read more ➺


when it rains, it pours

Meaning: Bad luck has a habit of arriving in a bunch instead of one piece at a time.

Example: Sarah's car stalled on the way to work, her laptop crashed that afternoon, and the landlord called about a rent hike before dinner. She just shook her head and said, when it rains it pours. Read more ➺


if it’s not one thing, it’s the other

Meaning: Expresses frustration when multiple problems occur one after another.

Example: If it's not one thing, it's the other—first the car broke down, now the power’s out. Read more ➺


a blessing in disguise

Meaning: the misfortune which turns out to have advantages

Example: Losing that job turned out to be a blessing in disguise for him as it forced him to plunge into business. Read more ➺


run amuck

Meaning: To behave in a wild, violent, or uncontrolled way.

Example: The malfunctioning robot ran amuck through the warehouse, damaging expensive equipment. Read more ➺


Share
Share