Be up against a brick wall

usgb
verb phrase

To face a difficult or impossible situation.

I tried to solve the math problem, but felt like I was up against a brick wall.
Visual representation of "be up against a brick wall" - To face a difficult or impossible situation

Often appears as...

  • feel up against a brick wall
  • found herself up against a brick wall

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be up against a brick wall"
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Figurative Use

This phrase is used metaphorically to express being unable to progress in a situation.

Illustration for Figurative Use
Every time I suggest new ideas at work, I feel like I'm up against a brick wall.
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Frustration

It suggests a high level of frustration or feeling stuck with no solution in sight.

Illustration for Frustration
Negotiating with the other company, we hit a communication impasse - it's like being up against a brick wall.
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No Obvious Solution

The phrase implies that a solution isn't immediately visible or available.

Illustration for No Obvious Solution
She was up against a brick wall with the legal issues; there seemed to be no way out.
Visual representation of the word "Be up against a brick wall"

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