Example
“Families are feeling the pinch as food and energy bills continue to rise.”
Dictionary details
Related idioms
Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.
at a pinch
Neutral · CEFR C1
if it becomes absolutely necessary, though the option is barely adequate
in a tight spot
Informal · CEFR B1
in a difficult or dangerous situation
down and out
Neutral · CEFR B2
in severe hardship, especially without money, resources, or prospects
keep the wolf from the door
Neutral · CEFR B2
to earn or manage just enough to avoid poverty, hunger, or serious hardship
a rip-off
Informal · CEFR B1
Something that is far too expensive for what it is.
ballpark figure
Informal · CEFR B1
a rough estimate, not an exact number
Source methodology
Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.