What does “Between the devil and the deep blue sea” mean?
"Between the devil and the deep blue sea" means having to choose between two equally difficult or unpleasant options.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I'm between the devil and the deep blue sea - either I lose my job or I work overtime every day.
Example
She's between the devil and the deep blue sea - either she breaks her promise or disappoints her friend.
Example
The company is between the devil and the deep blue sea - either they raise prices and lose customers or keep prices low and lose profits
Is “Between the devil and the deep blue sea” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Between the devil and the deep blue sea” 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 “Between the devil and the deep blue sea” effectively in context?
You can use "Between the devil and the deep (blue) sea" to describe a situation where you are faced with two equally difficult or dangerous choices or situations. It emphasizes the feeling of being trapped and having no good options. For example, if a friend is torn between two job offers, you might say, 'I feel like I'm between the devil and the deep sea when it comes to choosing between two job offers.'
- 1Decision Making
She was between the devil and the deep blue sea when deciding whether to stay in a toxic relationship or be alone.
- 2Work
The company was between the devil and the deep sea as they had to choose between laying off employees or going bankrupt.
- 3Personal Life
He felt between the devil and the deep sea when trying to decide whether to prioritize his career or his family.
Similar phrases to “Between the devil and the deep blue sea”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Between the devil and the deep blue sea” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Between the devil and the deep (blue) sea" is unknown.
Is “Between the devil and the deep blue sea” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Between the devil and the deep (blue) sea" is a well-known proverb that is commonly used in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they feel trapped and have no good options.
What tone does “Between the devil and the deep blue sea” have?
"Between the devil and the deep (blue) sea" conveys a tone of desperation and helplessness. It's often used to express the feeling of being caught in a difficult situation with no easy way out.
Can “Between the devil and the deep blue sea” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Between the devil and the deep (blue) sea" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile proverb that describes a universal feeling of being trapped between two difficult choices or situations. 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, 'She was caught between the devil and the deep blue sea when deciding whether to stay in a toxic relationship or be alone.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the proverb even if used alone, like saying 'I'm "between the devil and the deep sea"' to imply feeling trapped.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- in a tight spot
- caught between two fires
- between scylla and charybdis
- in a dilemma
- in a bind
Antonyms
- having multiple options
- having an easy choice
- in a favorable position
- in a win-win situation
