Have a tiger by the tail Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To be in a risky, difficult, or dangerous situation which is hard to control or escape from.
Usage & Nuances
This idiom is informal and often used to describe situations, projects, or problems that have become bigger or more dangerous than expected. Similar idioms: 'bitten off more than you can chew,' 'in over your head.' Often used in work, business, or life challenges.
Example Sentences
I have a tiger by the tail with this new job.
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He soon realized he had a tiger by the tail after starting his own business.
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Managing three kids alone feels like I have a tiger by the tail every day.
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Honestly, I think we have a tiger by the tail with this project—it's way more complicated than we thought.
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Once we agreed to help, we realized we'd grabbed a tiger by the tail.
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They've invested so much that they can't quit now—they really have a tiger by the tail.
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