have the wolf by the ear: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘have the wolf by the ear’ mean?
The idiom "have the wolf by the ear" means to be in a dangerous or precarious situation, where letting go or holding on both pose a risk. It carries the idea of being trapped or caught in a difficult and risky position with limited options and potential harm.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "throw to the wolves" means to sacrifice someone to a hostile or merciless group or situation, often for personal gain or to divert attention and avoid responsibility.
The idiom "lay by the heels" means to arrest or capture someone, typically in a forceful manner, by seizing their ankles as a form of restraint.
The idiom "keep the wolf from the door" means to have enough money or resources to provide for one's basic needs and avoid poverty or hunger.
The idiom "keep one's ears open" means to be attentive and listen carefully for information or opportunities.
"Have the world by the tail" means to be in a very fortunate and successful position, with everything going one's way.
The idiom "have the wind up" means to feel anxious or afraid. It can be used to describe someone who is experiencing fear or uneasiness about a particular situation.
Having the tiger by the tail means being in a dangerous situation where one has a strong grip on something powerful and uncontrollable.
The idiom "have someone's blood on one's head" means to be responsible or guilty for causing harm or death to someone.
The idiom "have someone by the short hairs" means to have someone in a position of complete control or power, making them unable to escape or avoid a certain situation or demand.
The idiom "have someone by the short and curlies" means to have complete control over someone or to have them in a vulnerable or powerless position.
Wolf's ear
The idiom "have the wolf by the ear" is a widely recognized phrase in American English that encapsulates the predicament of being caught in a challenging or dangerous situation. While its precise origins are uncertain, it carries a sense of urgency, caution, and potential risks. This idiom can be related to several other idioms that convey similar meanings and sentiments.
One related idiom is "have a tiger by the tail," which also expresses the idea of being entangled in a difficult situation. Just like having the wolf by the ear, having a tiger by the tail signifies the struggle to maintain control over a precarious and potentially dangerous circumstance. It emphasizes the challenge of holding onto something powerful and unpredictable, much like trying to grasp a wild animal by its tail.
Another related idiom is "throw to the wolves," which conveys a similar sense of danger and helplessness. When someone is thrown to the wolves, they are left vulnerable and exposed to a group of predatory individuals or forces. This idiom speaks to the idea of being abandoned or sacrificed to face the consequences of a challenging situation without adequate support or protection.
Similarly, "keep the wolf from the door" is an idiom that enables a connection to the concept of having the wolf by the ear. Keeping the wolf from the door implies the need to fend off threats or troubles that could be detrimental to one's well-being or survival. It highlights the ongoing effort required to protect oneself from harm and maintain a stable and secure situation.
These related idioms further emphasize the difficulty and uncertainty inherent in having the wolf by the ear. They underscore the need for caution, careful handling, and quick action to effectively address and resolve the challenging circumstances at hand.
The image evoked by having the wolf by the ear is one of danger and a precarious position. Wolves are known for their predatory nature and tenacious grip, symbolizing the challenge of dealing with a problem or situation that seems impossible to control. The idiom captures the essence of being caught or entangled in a way that prevents easy escape or resolution.
Having the wolf by the ear is an idiom that suggests the need for active engagement and attentive handling to prevent a potentially catastrophic outcome. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being proactive and taking decisive actions when faced with difficult situations.
The idiom implies a sense of urgency, indicating the necessity for resolution or action to address the situation promptly. It conveys the potential risks and challenges associated with maintaining the status quo and highlights the need for finding a way to extricate oneself from the predicament effectively.
The idiom "have the wolf by the ear" resonates with English speakers as they understand the sense of caution, urgency, and potential risks associated with being caught in a difficult or dangerous situation. The related idioms such as "have a tiger by the tail," "throw to the wolves," and "keep the wolf from the door" further reinforce the idea of entanglement, danger, and the need for active engagement. While the precise origins of the idiom may be uncertain, its meaning and implications hold a universal understanding of the challenges and potential consequences of having the wolf by the ear.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "have the wolf by the ear" can be used in a sentence:
- She found herself in a difficult situation where she felt like she had the wolf by the ear.
- He realized that he had the wolf by the ear when his lies started catching up with him.
- With mounting debts and no savings, he knew he had the wolf by the ear and needed to find a solution quickly.
More "Challenge" idioms
