Phrase guide

in a cleft stick

prep_phrase · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

prep_phrase

Meaning 1

In a difficult situation, unable to choose between unfavourable options; in a dilemma.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: Australia, UK, dated

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: on the horns of a dilemma, between a rock and a hard place, between Scylla and Charybdis, between the devil and the deep blue sea, between the hammer and the anvil, between two fires, damned if one does and damned if one doesn't, doomed if you do, doomed if you don't, in a cleft stick, in bad bread

Antonyms: none provided

2

prep_phrase

Meaning 2

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see in, cleft, stick.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From the metaphor of being caught in a tight position, unable to move.