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behind the eight ball

phrase

: in a highly disadvantageous position

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behind the curve
behind the eight ball
behind the scenes
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Cite this Entry

“Behind the eight ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behind%20the%20eight%20ball. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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