The spelling of the phrase "up one neck in" may seem confusing at first, but it can be easily understood with the help of IPA phonetic transcription. The "u" in "up" is pronounced as /ʌ/, the "w" in "one" is pronounced as /wʌn/ and the "n" in "neck" is pronounced as /nɛk/. "In" is pronounced as /ɪn/. Together, it is pronounced as /ʌpwʌn nɛk ɪn/. This phrase can mean being deeply involved or in trouble.
There is no standard dictionary definition for the phrase "up one neck in" as it does not exist as a standalone phrase. However, it could be interpreted figuratively by breaking it down into two separate phrases: "up to one's neck" and "in."
When using the expression "up to one's neck," it typically means being deeply involved or overwhelmed by something. It implies a situation in which a person is extremely busy or burdened by responsibilities, tasks, or problems. It suggests that one is deeply immersed or engaged in a situation, often to the point of feeling overwhelmed or overloaded.
The term "in" is a preposition that commonly denotes being inside or within a particular condition or state. It can indicate involvement, presence, or a state of being immersed in something.
Combining these two interpretations, "up one neck in" could imply being fully and overwhelmingly involved, consumed or burdened by a particular situation or task. It suggests that one is entrenched or deeply committed to the point where it becomes challenging to extricate oneself easily or smoothly.