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to tie oneself (up) in knots
01
to do something that makes oneself overly worried or confused
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "tie oneself in knots" and when to use it?
The idiom "tie oneself in knots" is originated from the idea of picturing someone trying to make a very tricky knot in a rope but ending up all tangled and confused. It is used to refer to someone who is getting too worried and making things harder by overthinking or making a problem more complicated than it is.
例子
The lawyer tied himself into knots during the cross-examination, confusing both the witness and the jury.
Jane tied herself into knots trying to choose the perfect outfit for the party, even though casual attire was encouraged.
The mayor tied himself up in knots answering a touchy political question.
I was tying myself in knots trying to explain what happened without getting him into trouble.