- To be in a difficult, awkward, or troublesome situation.
Explanation
Origin
- The origin is debated but likely relates to being preserved or immersed in pickle brine (vinegar/salt solution), suggesting an unpleasant or inescapable state.
- Being 'pickled' could metaphorically mean being stuck or disoriented.
- Shakespeare used the phrase How cam'st thou in this pickle? in 'The Tempest' (Act 5, Scene 1), indicating its usage dates back to at least the early 17th century, though perhaps with a slightly different connotation (e.g., drunk). The modern meaning of 'difficult situation' solidified later.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- In a jam
- In a bind
- Up shit creek (without a paddle) (Vulgar)
- Screwed / Royally screwed
- In deep shit (Vulgar)
- In the weeds (often used in service industry for being overwhelmed)
Milder:
- In a difficult situation
- Facing a problem / challenge
- In a tricky spot
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal. It can sound slightly quaint or old-fashioned to some ears, but it's widely understood.
- Generally fine for everyday conversation but perhaps avoid in very formal business or serious contexts.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might be confused by the literal meaning (a pickled vegetable). The context of difficulty is key.
Examples
- I've locked my keys in the car, now I'm in a real pickle!
- He's in a bit of a pickle because he double-booked himself for two important meetings.
- We ran out of gas miles from the nearest station – we were in a pickle.
Dialogue
Sarah: Help! My boss needs this report by 3 PM, but my computer just crashed and won't restart!
Tom: Oh wow, you're really in a pickle. Have you called IT support?
Sarah: Yes, they said they're busy but will try to get here soon. I'm panicking!
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Locked myself out of the house and my phone is inside. In a bit of a pickle here! Anyone seen my spare key? (Joking... mostly) 😅 #fail #lockedout
- Post: My toddler decided to 'redecorate' the living room wall with permanent marker while I was on a work call. In a pickle about how to clean this up! Any tips? #parenting #toddlerlife #help
Response Patterns
- Oh no!
- That sounds tricky.
- What are you going to do?
- How did that happen?
- Can I help?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says they are in a pickle:
- Show concern: Oh dear, are you okay?
- Ask for details: What's wrong? / Tell me about it.
- Offer assistance: Is there anything I can do? / Need a hand?
- Problem-solve: Have you tried...?
Conversation Starter
- No. It describes a current predicament. You wouldn't typically start a conversation by saying you're in a pickle unless you're asking for help.
Intonation
- Often said with a tone of mild worry, frustration, or sometimes humorously.
- Stress usually falls on pickle. in a PICKLE.
Generation Differences
- Understood by most, but perhaps used more frequently by older generations (40+). Younger people might more commonly use in a jam, screwed, or describe the situation directly.
Regional Variations
- Common in both American and British English, as well as other variants.