behind the eight ball
Meaning
In a difficult, disadvantaged position, especially due to bad timing, mistakes, or factors beyond your control.
Origin
From the game of pool/billiards: being stuck behind the eight ball leaves a blocked, risky shot and puts you at a disadvantage; it became a metaphor for being in trouble.
Notes
Colloquial metaphor for being at a disadvantage or in trouble, often due to timing or setbacks. Can be casual; in very formal writing, use plainer wording.
Examples
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We’re behind the eight ball after the supplier raised prices without notice.
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If you miss the permit deadline, you’ll be behind the eight ball for weeks.
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She started the semester behind the eight ball because she was sick.
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I’m already behind the eight ball on this project, so I can’t take on extra tasks.
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With those injuries, the team was behind the eight ball from the first quarter.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with “be” (am/is/are/was/were) + behind the eight ball. Often followed by “after/because/if” clauses explaining the setback. Article is fixed: “the eight ball.”
Synonyms
- in a bind
- up against it
- in trouble
- on the back foot
- at a disadvantage
- behind the curve
Antonyms
- in a strong position
- ahead of the game
- on track
- in the clear