THEME THURSDAY: EXPRESSIONS FOR BEING IN TROUBLE (UP THE CREEK)

Happy Thursday to you!

For April's Theme Thursday, we are looking at expressions related to being in trouble. Today we are looking at the idiom TO BE UP THE CREEK WITHOUT A PADDLE. 

Definition: in an awkward situation with no easy way out. 

To understand the expression, you need to understand the words CREEK and PADDLE. A creek is a small stream of water (like a little river). A paddle is the tool you use when you are in a boat, kayak, or canoe. So when you are UP THE CREEK WITHOUT A PADDLE, you are in big trouble! You cannot control your canoe or kayak, and you are stuck. 

Example 1: You lost your wallet, phone, and keys? Wow, you are up the creek without a paddle right now!

Example 2: He invested a lot of money in the company, but he can't find other investors or good employees. I think he's up the creek without a paddle. 

We can also just say UP THE CREEK. 

Example 3: I have a test tomorrow and I didn't study. I'm up the creek. 

I hope you're not UP THE CREEK today! Thanks for reading.

See you tomorrow for Phrasal Verb Friday and another definition of the verb TO COME ROUND.