be behind the eight ball

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be behind the eight ball (American & Australian informal)

to be in a difficult situation and unable to make progress

Usage notes: In a game of pool (= a game in which you hit numbered balls into holes around a table), if you are behind the black, number eight ball you are in a difficult position to take your next turn.

The police are very much behind the eight ball - they've had no more leads on these burglaries.

See also: ball, behind, eight

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