Skip to main content

Difference between In a hole and In the hole

admin Confusing Phrases

in a hole —(coll.) in an embarrassing or difficult (financial) position:

  • Lawyers have been known to embezzle their clients money when they themselves are in a hole.

in the hole—

1. = in a hole:

  • I couldn’t let the fact come out that the business was in the hole since I was trying to sell it.

2. (U.S. sl.) said of smth. virtually assured:

  • John knew his new accounting job was in the hole.

3. (U.S. Prison) in solitary confinement:

  • If you’re in the hole and complain, they’ll double your time in the hole.