THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
In a pickle
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
In an awkward or difficult situation.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- We are in a pickle: the keys are inside and the door has locked itself.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
We are ________: the keys are inside and the door has locked itself.
Show the answer
In a pickle — In an awkward or difficult situation.
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Make it yours
Write one sentence using “In a pickle” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
In an awkward or difficult situation.
Compare: We are in a pickle: the keys are inside and the door has locked itself.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it informally, often with a light tone, for a troublesome everyday problem. It may sound too playful for a very serious crisis.
More examples in context
- I was in a pickle when I realised I had sent the parcel to the wrong address.
- The café was in a pickle after its only oven stopped working.
Usage note
Keep a in the expression: in a pickle. It is a figurative use of pickle, with no connection to food in the situation.
A short conversation
A: Why are you waiting outside?
B: I am in a pickle. I left my keys on the kitchen table.
A: Let us call someone with a spare set.
One more practice question
Which situation puts someone in a pickle?
A. Locking themselves out when they need to leave urgently.
B. Finding their keys immediately and leaving without difficulty.
Check your answer
A. Being locked out creates an awkward practical problem.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.