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Region: General | Usage example: With limited resources, he felt the deck was stacked against him.

Deck is stacked against you

Meaning

Face unfair disadvantages.

Usage

Used when odds are intentionally unfavorable.

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.

Card games where cheating stacks decks to benefit someone.

Used in gambling satire and later politics.

Related Idioms

Against the clock

Racing to finish before time runs out.

Against the grain

Opposite to what is expected or comfortable.

All hands on deck

Every available person must help to accomplish an urgent task.

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.