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Region: UK | Usage example: When they cut funding, the team was left in the lurch.

Left in the lurch

Meaning

Abandoned in a difficult situation.

Usage

Used when someone is forsaken.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

From the old game lurk and its penalties.

Appears in 18th-century English texts.

Related Idioms

Out of left field

Unexpected or surprising.

In a pickle

In a difficult or awkward situation.

Left field

Unusual or unexpected.

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.