at a pinch
The phrase 'at a pinch' is commonly used in British, Australian, and New Zealand English to indicate a solution that is possible but not ideal.
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🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2General
(informal, idiomatic)When something can be done if absolutely necessary, but it might not be ideal or comfortable.
Example
- We can fit five people in the car, and maybe six at a pinch.
- At a pinch, we could use the old computer for the presentation.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "at a pinch":