Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea Meaning, Examples, Synonyms

The Idiom between the devil and the deep blue sea meaning is to be presented with two unfavourable or inconvenient options, out of which choosing anyone of it will lead to an unpleasant experience and both of them are inescapable positions.

The phrase is first mentioned in Robert Monro’s military diaries from 1637, when he states, “I, with my partie, did lie on our poste, as betwixt the devil and the deep sea.” The word “blue,” which was only introduced subsequently, is not mentioned.

Let’s dig deeper to know more about the idiom.

Usage with Example

Given below are a  few examples of the idiom:

• My fiance and I find ourselves in a situation between the devil and the deep blue sea because both our parents want us to spend Thanksgiving with them, but they live on opposite sides of the country.

• When I was a student, I was always in a dilemma, between the devil and the deep blue sea, having to choose whether to buy food or my bus pass each month.

• Since we don’t have enough money to send both our children to college, we’re facing a difficult choice, between the devil and the deep blue sea, about what to do.

• I’m in a predicament between the devil and the deep blue sea. If I go on holiday during peak season, I may get fired, but if I don’t go, my girlfriend may leave me.

Also Read: Break the Ice- Idiom

Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea Synonyms

A few synonyms of the idiom are:

• between a rock and a hard place
• between the hammer and the anvil
• between two fires
• Catch-22
• cornered
• in a dilemma
• in a pickle
• in a predicament
• in the middle
• no choice
• sitting on a powder keg

Also Read: Useful Idioms with Examples, Sentences and Meanings

Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea Quiz

After two of my best friends had a terrible breakup, I’ve felt like I’m between the devil and the deep blue sea 

• As I’ve continued being friends with both of them.
• As both are far away
• As both are wrong 

Answer: As I’ve continued being friends with both of them.

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

This was all about the idiom “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea” meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.