bɪˈhaɪnd ðə eɪt bɔːl
Sports
informal
intermediate
- Literally:
- in billiards, having the eight ball between the cue ball and the target
What does "behind the eight ball" mean?
- in a difficult or unfavorable position
- at a disadvantage
Examples
- After missing the first two deadlines, we were really behind the eight ball.
- The team found themselves behind the eight ball after losing their starting quarterback.
- Starting a business during a recession puts you behind the eight ball from day one.
Origin
From pool/billiards, where being behind the eight ball makes a direct shot very difficult.
How to use it
Used to describe being in a difficult or disadvantaged position.
Similar expressions
in a tight spot
up against it
in a bind
Opposites
in the driver's seat
ahead of the game
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- on the ball
Alert and competent
Use it in a practice answer
Try "behind the eight ball" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.