in a pinch
idiom
US
: in a bad situation when help is needed
I can help out in a pinch if you need a babysitter.
In a pinch, you can substitute another ingredient in the recipe.
Examples of in a pinch in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Within the context of a healthy roster, Santos would have spot minutes either in a pinch or in garbage time.
—
Jannelle Moore, Mercury News, 16 Feb. 2026
The waistband of the wide-leg trousers is fitted with elastic for a stretchy, forgiving fit, and they’re even designed with two deep side pockets that’ll hold your phone in a pinch.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 15 Feb. 2026
While fireplace ashes can be used as a niche cleaning solution, especially in a pinch, Toner doesn't recommend using it as an everyday cleaner.
—Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 7 Feb. 2026
Need an easy appetizer in a pinch?
—Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for in a pinch
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Jannelle Moore, Mercury News, 16 Feb. 2026
The waistband of the wide-leg trousers is fitted with elastic for a stretchy, forgiving fit, and they’re even designed with two deep side pockets that’ll hold your phone in a pinch.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 15 Feb. 2026
While fireplace ashes can be used as a niche cleaning solution, especially in a pinch, Toner doesn't recommend using it as an everyday cleaner.
—Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 7 Feb. 2026
Need an easy appetizer in a pinch?
—Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for in a pinch
Cite this Entry
“In a pinch.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20a%20pinch. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.
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