in the lurch

USAGE SUMMARY

"in the lurch" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is in an awkward or difficult situation, either through their own actions or an external event. For example: "The new manager left the department staff in the lurch by announcing the sudden changes in policy without any consultation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

MF Global's customers remain in the lurch.

The New York Times

The candidates, however, remain in the lurch.

The New York Times

About 300 hotel workers have been left in the lurch.

The New York Times

Those workers will not be left in the lurch.

The New York Times

But then you're annoyingly left in the lurch.

Independent

Previous trains had left passengers in the lurch in Hyannis.

The New York Times

I would never leave you in the lurch intentionally".

The New York Times

"Timmy is not leaving us in the lurch," Sakiewicz said.

The New York Times - Sports

And the tobacco people left us in the lurch".

The New Yorker

This has left genuine students in the lurch.

The Guardian

Leaving Alaska in the lurch is best for Alaska.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the lurch" when you want to emphasize the suddenness and unexpectedness of being left in a difficult situation. It often implies a sense of betrayal or irresponsibility on the part of the person who left.

Common error

While "in the lurch" is widely used, it might be too informal for highly formal or academic writing. Consider using more neutral phrases like "left without support" or "abandoned" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the lurch" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which someone is left or abandoned. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the lurch" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of abandoning someone in a difficult situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it conveys a sense of vulnerability and unexpected abandonment. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider the context and audience, as it might be perceived as slightly informal in highly formal settings. Alternative phrases like ""left stranded"" or "left without support" may be more appropriate in such cases. Remember to use "in the lurch" when you want to highlight the suddenness and negative impact of leaving someone without assistance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

left high and dry

Emphasizes the sudden and unexpected nature of being abandoned.

left stranded

Focuses on the feeling of abandonment and lack of resources.

left to fend for oneself

Highlights the need to independently manage a difficult situation.

left in the cold

Highlights the feeling of being ignored and unsupported.

left without support

Explicitly states the lack of assistance or resources.

left vulnerable

Stresses the susceptibility to harm or difficulty after being abandoned.

abandoned

Directly indicates the act of being deserted or forsaken.

left unsupported

Highlights the absence of any assistance.

left to one's own devices

Emphasizes the freedom and responsibility that comes with being abandoned.

left helpless

Focuses on the inability to cope with the situation after being abandoned.

FAQs

How can I use "in the lurch" in a sentence?

You can use "in the lurch" to describe a situation where someone is suddenly left in a difficult or embarrassing situation. For example, "The company closed down suddenly, leaving its employees "left stranded" and in the lurch."

What's a less informal alternative to "in the lurch"?

If you need a more formal alternative, consider using phrases like "left without support", "abandoned", or "left unsupported" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "in the lurch" in a business context?

While "in the lurch" can be used in some business contexts, it's important to consider your audience and the overall tone of your communication. It might be more suitable for internal communications or less formal settings. In formal business correspondence, consider more neutral alternatives.

What does it mean to leave someone "in the lurch"?

To leave someone "in the lurch" means to abandon them or leave them without help at a time when they need it most. It suggests a sudden and often unexpected departure that creates difficulties for the person left behind.