the dirty end of the stick

the dirty end of the stick

The worst, least pleasant, or most difficult aspect of something. Usually used after "get." You have to stay tough during business negotiations or else you may end up getting the dirty end of the stick. With three older brothers, I always get the dirty end of the stick when it comes to doing chores.See also: dirty, end, of, stick

the dirty end of the stick

the difficult or unpleasant part of a task or situation. informal 2000 Sunday Times (Johannesburg) I still feel a bit sorry for Hugh, he always seems to get the dirty end of the stick. See also: dirty, end, of, stick