To be in a very dangerous situation and not knowing what to do, Or to be involved in some precarious situation that has bad results or outcome

Etymology:

  • This idiom originated from the sailors. The planks used for supporting guns were known as the devil. Sailors used to carry out a few repairs by standing on this plank or taking support from it. A sailor was involved in an extremely dangerous situation, as he might go overboard or down and be lost in the deep blue sea. So, this term is used to express a dangerous situation of any person.
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Gloria had to choose between a poor husband, without any future, or being homeless, she was between the devil and the deep blue sea.

Submitted on February 25, 2019

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    "Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 21 Nov. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/between-the-devil-and-the-deep-blue-sea_44489>.

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