Meaning of the word "get/ have somebody over a barrel" in English
What does "get/ have somebody over a barrel" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
get/ have somebody over a barrel
US /ɡet/hæv ˌsʌmbədi ˌoʊvər ə ˈbærəl/
UK /ɡet/hæv ˌsʌmbədi ˌoʊvər ə ˈbærəl/
Idiom
1.
to put someone in a very difficult position from which they cannot escape without suffering, especially so that you can make them do what you want
Example:
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The company had us over a barrel because we needed the contract so badly.
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He tried to get me over a barrel by threatening to expose my secret.
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