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on the ropes
01
very likely to be defeated or completely fail
IdiomWhat 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
If we do n't find a solution soon, our company will be on the ropes and may have to close down.
She is on the ropes with stress and anxiety from her heavy workload.
