The jaws of death, defeat, etc.
phrase
A dangerous, perilous, or life-threatening situation or condition.
The mission, he knew, would plunge him into the jaws of death.
Often appears as...
- escape from the jaws of death
- in the jaws of death
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
The brink of failure or disaster.
With their star player injured, the team seems to be staring into the jaws of defeat.
Often appears as...
- staring into the jaws of defeat
- snatched victory from the jaws of defeat
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
A dangerous, perilous, or life-threatening situation or condition.
The mission, he knew, would plunge him into the jaws of death.
Often appears as...
- escape from the jaws of death
- in the jaws of death
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
The brink of failure or disaster.
With their star player injured, the team seems to be staring into the jaws of defeat.
Often appears as...
- staring into the jaws of defeat
- snatched victory from the jaws of defeat
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Imagery Intense
Visualize the literal 'jaws' to feel the intense danger or critical situation.
The pilot skillfully maneuvered the aircraft out of the jaws of death.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
Understand it's a metaphor for extreme situations, not actual jaws.
Escaping the earthquake felt like being snatched from the jaws of death.
Pro Tip 3/3High Stakes
Use this phrase when the outcome is matter of life or death.
Lost at sea, they were in the jaws of death until rescued.
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