Not be able to do something to save your life
phrase
To be extremely poor or terrible at doing something.
John cannot play tennis to save his life.
Often appears as...
- can't sing to save my life
- couldn't draw to save his life
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To be extremely poor or terrible at doing something.
John cannot play tennis to save his life.
Often appears as...
- can't sing to save my life
- couldn't draw to save his life
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Extreme Inability
The phrase emphasizes a dramatic lack of skill, indicating that the person is unable to do something no matter how hard they try.
I tried to fix the sink, but I couldn't do it to save my life.
Pro Tip 2/3Hyperbolic Humor
Often used humorously to exaggerate personal shortcomings in a self-deprecating way.
Even with a recipe, I can't bake cookies to save my life.
Pro Tip 3/3Idiomatic Context
Understand that this is an idiomatic expression, not to be taken literally. It's not about actual life-threatening situations.
He's so clumsy, he couldn't catch a ball to save his life.
Pro Tip 1/3Extreme Inability
The phrase emphasizes a dramatic lack of skill, indicating that the person is unable to do something no matter how hard they try.
I tried to fix the sink, but I couldn't do it to save my life.
Pro Tip 2/3Hyperbolic Humor
Often used humorously to exaggerate personal shortcomings in a self-deprecating way.
Even with a recipe, I can't bake cookies to save my life.
Pro Tip 3/3Idiomatic Context
Understand that this is an idiomatic expression, not to be taken literally. It's not about actual life-threatening situations.
He's so clumsy, he couldn't catch a ball to save his life.
Pro Tip 1/3Extreme Inability
The phrase emphasizes a dramatic lack of skill, indicating that the person is unable to do something no matter how hard they try.
I tried to fix the sink, but I couldn't do it to save my life.
Pro Tip 2/3Hyperbolic Humor
Often used humorously to exaggerate personal shortcomings in a self-deprecating way.
Even with a recipe, I can't bake cookies to save my life.
Pro Tip 3/3Idiomatic Context
Understand that this is an idiomatic expression, not to be taken literally. It's not about actual life-threatening situations.
He's so clumsy, he couldn't catch a ball to save his life.
Never forget "Not be able to do something to save your life"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension