What does “Ball and Chain” mean?
"Ball and Chain" means a burdensome or restrictive responsibility or commitment.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Taking care of my elderly parents can sometimes feel like a ball and chain.
Example
I feel like my job has become a ball and chain that I can't escape from.
Example
Being in a toxic relationship can feel like being tied to a ball and chain
Is “Ball and Chain” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Ball and Chain” 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 “Ball and Chain” effectively in context?
You can use "Ball and Chain" to describe a burdensome or restrictive responsibility or commitment. It often refers to something that feels like it's holding you back or preventing you from being free. For example, if someone feels trapped in a job they don't enjoy, they might say, 'My job has become a ball and chain that I can't escape from.'
- 1Family
Taking care of my elderly parents can sometimes feel like a ball and chain.
- 2Work
I feel like my job has become a ball and chain that I can't escape from.
- 3Relationships
Being in a toxic relationship can feel like being tied to a ball and chain.
Similar phrases to “Ball and Chain”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Ball and Chain” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Ball and Chain" is unknown.
Is “Ball and Chain” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Ball and Chain" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their feelings of being burdened or restricted by a particular responsibility or commitment.
What tone does “Ball and Chain” have?
"Ball and Chain" conveys a tone of frustration or dissatisfaction. It's often used to express a sense of being trapped or held back by something undesirable.
Can “Ball and Chain” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Ball and Chain" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of feeling burdened or restricted. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Her job has become a ball and chain.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'This job is a real "ball and chain"!' to express frustration.
