What does “At the end of your tether” mean?
"At the end of your tether" means being completely exhausted or at the limit of one's patience.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After dealing with the kids all day, I'm at the end of my tether.
Example
I've been working overtime for weeks and I'm at the end of my tether.
Example
The constant delays and setbacks have left me at the end of my tether
Is “At the end of your tether” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“At the end of your tether” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “At the end of your tether” effectively in context?
You can use "At the end of your tether" to express a state of complete exhaustion or being at the limit of one's patience. It conveys a feeling of being overwhelmed and unable to cope with a situation any longer. For example, if you have been dealing with a difficult project for a long time and are feeling completely exhausted, you might say, 'I'm at the end of my tether.'
- 1Parenting
After dealing with the kids all day, I'm at the end of my tether.
- 2Work
I've been working overtime for weeks and I'm at the end of my tether.
- 3Frustration
The constant delays and setbacks have left me at the end of my tether.
Similar phrases to “At the end of your tether”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “At the end of your tether” come from?
The origin of the phrase "At the end of your tether" is unknown.
Is “At the end of your tether” common in everyday conversation?
"At the end of your tether" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe their feelings of exhaustion or frustration when they have reached their limit.
What tone does “At the end of your tether” have?
"At the end of your tether" conveys a tone of frustration and weariness. It is used to express a sense of being overwhelmed and unable to handle a situation any longer.
Can “At the end of your tether” be used in informal and formal settings?
"At the end of your tether" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes a state of exhaustion or frustration. You can use it in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"At the end of your tether" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I've been dealing with this problem for so long, I'm at the end of my tether.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm really "at the end of my tether"!' to express frustration.
