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way out of a paper bag

A minimal level of competence or effectiveness, as used in phrases where one is unable to perform such.

Etymology:

  • Most likely from "he couldn't punch his way out of a paper bag."
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Junior varsity couldn't play their way out of a paper bag in comparison.

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Submitted on September 01, 2009

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Nearby phrases

Some more phrases from our dictionary similar to way out of a paper bag

way to go! congrats!wear outwear outweasel outwear outwalked out onwear out one's welcomewash outway to goweasel outwatch outway back whenway to bury the leadway out

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    "way out of a paper bag." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 22 Dec. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/way-out-of-a-paper-bag_7919>.

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