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Region: General | Usage example: Choosing to cut staff or accept losses feels like being between the devil and the deep blue sea.

Between the devil and the deep blue sea

Meaning

Trapped between two dangerous or unpleasant options.

Usage

Used for situations with no good choices.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Nautical phrase referencing perilous spots on a ship between the devil (a seam) and the ocean.

Used since the 17th century in maritime narratives.

Related Idioms

Between a rock and a hard place

Stuck between two negative options.

Once in a blue moon

Very rarely.

Blue in the face

Extremely frustrated from repeating something.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.