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the short end of the stick
01
an unfavorable or disadvantageous position or outcome that one receives in a particular situation
What is the origin of the idiom "the short end of the stick" and when to use it?
The idiom "the short end of the stick" is believed to have originated from a literal practice involving the use of sticks or straws to determine one's share or position. In certain situations, such as dividing tasks or allocating resources, individuals would draw or select sticks of varying lengths. The person who drew the shortest stick would receive the least desirable outcome or the most challenging task. It is commonly employed when discussing matters of fairness, inequality, or perceived injustice.
Example
Without proper regulations and oversight, there is a risk that workers will get the short end of the stick in terms of wages and working conditions in the coming years.
During the economic recession, many families felt they got the short end of the stick as they struggled to make ends meet while the wealthy seemed unaffected.
In the previous project, our team got the short end of the stick with the most challenging tasks and tight deadlines.
The marginalized communities fear they will continue to get the short end of the stick unless proactive measures are taken to address systemic biases and discrimination.
If we don't address systemic inequalities, future generations will continue to get the short end of the stick, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and injustice.
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