How to Pronounce "circle the drain"
expression
ˈsɝkəɫ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈdɹeɪn
SUR-kuhl thuh DRAYN
sˈɜːkəl/ /ðə, ði/ /dɹˈeɪn
SUR-kuhl thuh DRAYN
Definition
To be in a situation that is getting worse and is close to failing, collapsing, or ending, often used for businesses, health, or projects.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈsɝkəɫ/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈdɹeɪn
British English
sˈɜːkəl/ /ðə, ði/ /dɹˈeɪn
Simplified Pronunciation
US
SUR-kuhl thuh DRAYN
UK
SUR-kuhl thuh DRAYN
Listen in Context
The company has been circling the drain for months.
After the surgery, his health started to circle the drain.
Their finances are circling the drain.
I'm afraid this whole project is just circling the drain at this point.