How Do You Spell BETWEEN DEVIL AND THE DEEP BLUE SEA?

Pronunciation: [bɪtwˌiːn dˈɛvə͡l and ðə dˈiːp blˈuː sˈiː] (IPA)

The phrase "between devil and the deep blue sea" refers to being in a difficult situation where there are no good choices. The word "between" is pronounced /bɪˈtwiːn/, with the stress on the first syllable. "Devil" is pronounced /ˈdevəl/, with the stress on the first syllable and the second syllable pronounced like "ull." "Blue" is pronounced /bluː/, with the stress on the first syllable, and "sea" is pronounced /siː/, with the stress on the second syllable. The spelling of this phrase is consistent with the traditional spelling conventions of English.

BETWEEN DEVIL AND THE DEEP BLUE SEA Meaning and Definition

1. The idiom "between the devil and the deep blue sea" is a metaphorical expression used to describe a situation where one is faced with two equally difficult or unpleasant choices, making it difficult to decide which one to choose. The phrase can also imply being trapped or caught in a dangerous or inescapable predicament.

   The origin of this phrase can be traced back to sailing terminology. In older times, sailors would use the term "devil" to refer to the seam, which is the gap between the deck planks. On the other hand, the "deep blue sea" represents the open waters. Therefore, being caught between the "devil" and the "deep blue sea" meant a sailor found themselves in a tight spot, not knowing whether they should stay on the unstable deck or risk the dangers of the vast ocean.

   In today's context, this expression is typically used in conversations to illustrate being in a dilemma with no favorable outcome. It portrays the predicament of choosing between two undesirable options or being torn between two difficult decisions, where avoiding one unwanted consequence leads to experiencing the other. Consequently, the phrase suggests being trapped without an apparent solution or favorable outcome, compelling the individual to make a difficult choice with potential negative consequences.

Common Misspellings for BETWEEN DEVIL AND THE DEEP BLUE SEA

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