这些看着眼熟却不会用的俚语

IN A BIND/FIX/JAM

in a difficult situation or position

1. Can I borrow $10 from you? I’m in a bind. The banks have closed and I need to stop at the supermarket on the way home.

2. Sam is really in a fix. He accepted a job last Friday that he doesn’t particularly want because he didn’t think he would get a better offer. Now he has been offered a job he wants, but he doesn’t know how to get out of the first job.

3. I’m in a jam. I have a doctor’s appointment at the same time as I have to pick the children up from school. Do you think you could get the children for me?

IN A NUTSHELL

concisely; in a few words

1. You can’t go to the movies tonight because tomorrow is a school day, you’re supposed to be saving your money, and you just went to the movies last night. Now, if you want it in a nutshell, the answer is no.

2. We’re eager to find out what her plans are. Tell us in a nutshell: is she going or not?

IN THE BAG

a sure thing; success is assured

1. The personnel director said that I was the best candidate for the job and that if I pass the typing test tomorrow, the job is in the bag.

2. I know you think the scholarship is in the bag, but don’t get your hopes up too high.