Definition & Meaning of "A wall"

face a (brick) wall

/fˈeɪs ɔː kˈʌm tʊ ɔː hˈɪt ɐ ɔː ðə bɹˈɪk ɔː wˈɔːl/

/fˈeɪs ɔːɹ kˈʌm tʊ ɔːɹ hˈɪt ɐ ɔːɹ ðə bɹˈɪk ɔːɹ wˈɔːl/

to face a (brick) wall

PHRASE

to reach a point where it is unlikely or too difficult to make any progress

to [face|come to|hit] (a|the) (brick|) wall definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "a brick wall" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "a brick wall" can be traced back to the early 20th century. It comes from the analogy of running into or hitting one's head against an actual brick wall, which is immovable and impenetrable. In modern usage, it can refer to any situation where a person or group is facing a significant obstacle or challenge that seems insurmountable.

be against a (brick) wall

/biː ɔː kˈʌm ˌʌp ɐɡˈɛnst ɐ ɔː ðə bɹˈɪk ɔː wˈɔːl/

/biː ɔːɹ kˈʌm ˌʌp ɐɡˈɛnst ɐ ɔːɹ ðə bɹˈɪk ɔːɹ wˈɔːl/

to be against a (brick) wall

PHRASE

to encounter a situation where progress or resolution is difficult to achieve