The phrase "fallen between cracks" means to be overlooked or neglected. In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be pronounced as /ˈfɔː.lən bəˈtwiːn kræks/. The pronunciation of "fallen" is /ˈfɔː.lən/ with stress on the first syllable. "Between" is pronounced as /bəˈtwiːn/ with stress on the second syllable, and "cracks" is pronounced as /kræks/ with stress on the first syllable. This phrase is commonly used to describe situations where a problem or issue goes unnoticed or unaddressed.
"Fallen between cracks" is an idiomatic expression that implies the occurrence of a situation or event being overlooked, neglected, or forgotten due to negligence, organizational shortcomings, or a lack of proper attention or focus. This phrase originates from the idea that when objects or individuals are left unattended or unmonitored, they may inadvertently slip or get lost in the narrow spaces or gaps between surfaces or systems.
Metaphorically, when an item or person "falls between the cracks," it means that they have been disregarded or disregarded within a complex structure where they were expected to receive attention. This could involve scenarios where an individual's needs, requests, or concerns are unintentionally disregarded or ignored by administrative or bureaucratic systems, resulting in them not receiving the necessary support, services, or attention they require.
This expression can also encompass circumstances where a particular issue or problem is not adequately addressed or resolved due to a lack of oversight or ineffective coordination. Often, this failure can stem from the interconnectedness of different systems or individuals, as the responsibility and accountability become fragmented, leading to the issue being overlooked.
Overall, the phrase "fallen between cracks" encapsulates a situation where someone or something has been overlooked or neglected within a larger structure or organization, which hampers their ability to receive the attention, care, or assistance they necessitate.