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
Next time, don't fret too much—instead, use a paper towel as an emergency filter in a pinch.
—
Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 24 Oct. 2025
Dark corn syrup, which is derived from corn, can be used in a pinch but won’t yield the same crisp texture.
—Jenavieve Christensen, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Oct. 2025
Don’t have the patience to paint your own nails—or need a salon-quality mani in a pinch?
—Bella Cacciatore, Glamour, 22 Oct. 2025
One easy-access zippered pocket on the front will hold a portable charger or your passport in a pinch, and it’s sustainably made from recycled polyester fabric.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 11 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for in a pinch
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Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 24 Oct. 2025
Dark corn syrup, which is derived from corn, can be used in a pinch but won’t yield the same crisp texture.
—Jenavieve Christensen, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Oct. 2025
Don’t have the patience to paint your own nails—or need a salon-quality mani in a pinch?
—Bella Cacciatore, Glamour, 22 Oct. 2025
One easy-access zippered pocket on the front will hold a portable charger or your passport in a pinch, and it’s sustainably made from recycled polyester fabric.
—Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 11 Oct. 2025
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 28 Oct. 2025.
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