Up a creek without a paddle.
In a difficult situation with no easy way out.
To be "up a creek without a paddle" means to be in a challenging situation without any clear or easy way out. It evokes the imagery of being stranded in a boat on a creek and unable to steer or direct one’s movement, symbolizing helplessness and difficulty in problem-solving.
Example Sentences
We were up a creek without a paddle when we lost the map in the woods.
They were in a difficult and helpless situation without the map in the woods.
Their car broke down in the desert, leaving them up a creek without a paddle.
Their car broke down in the desert, leaving them stranded and in trouble.
If the project leader quits now, the whole team will be up a creek without a paddle.
The team will be in a difficult situation if the project leader quits now.
