In a pinch Meaning in English
expression
ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈpɪntʃ
IN-uh-PINCH
ˈɪn/ /æɪ/ /pˈɪntʃ
IN-uh-PINCH
Definition
Used to say that something can be done or used if it is absolutely necessary or in an emergency.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal, conversational phrase. It suggests improvisation or making do when the ideal option isn't available. Often used to reassure someone that an alternative solution will work if really needed.
Spanish: en caso de apuro - en una emergenciaPortuguese (BR): em caso de necessidade - se precisar muitoPortuguese (PT): em caso de aperto - se for precisoChinese (Simplified): 在紧急情况下Chinese (Traditional): 在緊急情況下Hindi: ज़रूरत पड़ने परArabic: عند الضرورةBengali: অত্যাবশ্যক হলে - একান্ত প্রয়োজনেRussian: в крайнем случае - если совсем необходимоJapanese: いざという時は - どうしても困ったときにVietnamese: trong trường hợp cần thiết - khi thật sự cầnKorean: 급할 때 - 아주 필요할 때Turkish: zor durumda - mecbur kalıncaUrdu: مجبوری میں - ضرورت پڑنے پرIndonesian: jika terpaksa - dalam keadaan darurat
Example Sentences
Bread works in a pinch if you run out of rice.
basic
You can use water in a pinch if you don't have milk.
basic
In a pinch, we can call a taxi instead of taking the bus.
basic
I don't have a spare charger, but you can borrow mine in a pinch.
natural
That old car still works in a pinch if we have to drive somewhere.
natural
We don't usually use plastic plates, but they work in a pinch for parties.
natural