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UKon the ropes
/ɒnðə ɹˈəʊps/
/ɑːnðə ɹˈoʊps/on the ropes
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "on the ropes" and when to use it?
The idiom "on the ropes" has its origins in boxing, where a boxer who is exhausted and has taken many punches may be leaning against the ropes surrounding the ring for support. The phrase now means to be in a difficult or perilous situation, often on the verge of defeat. The phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone is struggling or facing a difficult challenge.
Examples
1. The team is on the ropes after losing their star player to injury.
2. She is on the ropes with stress and anxiety from her heavy workload.
3. The boxer was on the ropes after being knocked down twice in the first round.
4. If we don't find a solution soon, our company will be on the ropes and may have to close down.
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