behind the eightball
In a bind
Behind the eightball means in a difficult or disadvantageous position: We're behind the eightball after losing our biggest client.
The phrase comes from pool, where the black eight ball can block a player's shot at their target ball, leaving them in a tough spot.
Also written as behind the eight ball.
- pocket billiardsCue game with pockets
- challengedDisputed or questioned
- troubleDifficulty or distress
- disadvantageousCausing harm or hindrance
- corneredUnable to flee
tough spot · backed into a corner · stymied · difficulties · pool · jam · deadlock · hurdle · hobbled · between a rock and a hard place · high stakes · snooker · adversity · trap · uphill battle · desperate · carom · rack
behind the eightballin the driver's seat
Having control or authority
ahead of the game · sitting pretty · on top of the world · holding all the cards · in clover
behind the eightballin control
Managing with authority
calling the shots · running the show · in charge · at the helm · holding the reins
behind, eight, balled, balling, eighty, eighteen, eighth, eighths