backs to the wall
Trapped, no options
A situation of desperate defense, where retreat is impossible and one must fight or face defeat.
The image is of soldiers pressed against a barrier with enemies closing in.
Usually appears as back to the wall or backs against the wall: With their backs to the wall, the team mounted an improbable comeback.
The phrase suggests both desperation and determination—when there's nowhere left to go, you fight harder.
- corneredUnable to flee
- desperateDriven by urgent need
- confrontationDirect hostile encounter
- resolveFirmness of purpose
- hold the lineMaintain current position
defensive · dire straits · against all odds · improvise · tenacity · dig in · battlefield · last stand · final stand · resistance · perseverance · never say die · uphill battle · grit · do or die · make or break · struggle · down to the wire
- predicamentspredicament, dilemma, bind, pickle, pinch
backs to the wallsafe and sound
Unharmed and protected
in the clear · sitting pretty · comfortable · secure · home free
backs to the wallfree rein
Unrestricted freedom to act
wide open · spoiled for choice · carte blanche · room to breathe · unconstrained
backs to the wallin the driver's seat
Having control or authority
holding all the cards · in control · on top · upper hand · spoiled for choice
back, backs, backed, backing, backer, backside, backbone, background, backyard