flat on (one's) back
Lacking the strength or ability to get up. Often used when someone is sick or injured, but it can be used figuratively as well. Oh man, I'm flat on my back with this flu. I haven't been out of bed in days! Sally's been flat on her back ever since she broke her leg. She's having a really hard time getting around in her cast. Losing my job has left me flat on my back. I'm really worried about how I'll pay my bills right now.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
flat on one's back
1. Sick in bed. For example, The flu has put her flat on her back.
2. Helpless, without recourse, defeated, as in I wish I could help but the recession has put me flat on my back.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.