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Over a Barrel

What Does "Over a Barrel" Mean?

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"Over a barrel" is an English idiom. It means "in a vulnerable or helpless position; having no choice but to comply with someone else's demands."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "over a barrel" used in a sentence:
  • He had no other job offers, so he felt like he was over a barrel when negotiating his salary.
  • The company had them over a barrel with the strict contract terms.
  • Being caught in the rain without an umbrella, he was over a barrel.
meaning for over a barrel

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Over a Barrel" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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