THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
From pillar to post
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
From one place or person to another, repeatedly and often unwillingly.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- I was sent from pillar to post while trying to replace my travel card.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
I was sent ________ while trying to replace my travel card.
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From pillar to post — From one place or person to another, repeatedly and often unwillingly.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “From pillar to post” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
From one place or person to another, repeatedly and often unwillingly.
Compare: I was sent from pillar to post while trying to replace my travel card.
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 this expression when describing frustrating movement between offices, services or temporary places. It usually suggests a lack of stability or useful help.
More examples in context
- The family grew tired of being moved from pillar to post.
- Please give me one contact person instead of passing me from pillar to post.
Usage note
Common patterns include “be sent”, “be pushed” and “be moved from pillar to post”. It is usually negative, rather than a cheerful description of sightseeing.
A short conversation
A: Did anyone solve the account problem?
B: No. They sent me from pillar to post all morning.
A: Let’s ask for one person who can handle it.
One more practice question
Which experience fits “from pillar to post”?
A. Having one straightforward appointment that solves your problem.
B. Being repeatedly redirected between offices without getting help.
Check your answer
B. Repeated, frustrating redirection is the situation the expression describes.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.