| 释义 |
up a gum tree up a gum treeIn a challenging or troublesome situation. (Possums were known to flee predators by hiding in gum trees.) Primarily heard in UK, Australia. I have no savings, so if I get fired from my job, I'll be up a gum tree. Shouldn't we stop for gas? We'll be up a gum tree if the car dies on that desolate road ahead.See also: gum, tree, upup a gum tree BRITISH, OLD-FASHIONEDIf someone is up a gum tree, they are in a very difficult situation. If another member of staff leaves, we'll really be up a gum tree. Note: This expression may be based on the fact that opossums (= animals with thick fur and long tails) often hide in gum trees when they are being hunted. See also: gum, tree, upup a gum tree in or into a predicament. informal This phrase is now found mainly in British English, but the phrase is recorded in the early 19th century in the USA, where possum up a gum tree was the title of a song or dance. 1992 Economist If they should end up seeking a deal with the Unionists, offers of devolution will lead ministers straight up a gum tree. See also: gum, tree, upup a ˈgum tree (British English, informal) in a very difficult or awkward situation: I’ve got bills to pay and the bank is refusing to lend me any more money. I’m really up a gum tree.See also: gum, tree, up |