informal10K+

Lying in the gutter

UK//ˈlaɪ.ɪŋ ɪn ðə ˈɡʌtə//US//ˈlaɪ.ɪŋ ɪn ðə ˈɡʌtər//

Meaning of Lying in the gutter

To be in a state of extreme poverty or disgrace.

In simple words: to be very poor and unhappy

Lying in the gutter in a sentence

  • After losing his job, he felt like he was lying in the gutter.
  • She thought her life was lying in the gutter after the breakup.
  • They were lying in the gutter, struggling to make ends meet.

How to use Lying in the gutter

Often used to describe someone at their lowest point. It's informal and may not be suitable for formal situations.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Picture a person literally lying in a dirty street, representing failure or low status.

Related words

Collocations with Lying in the gutter

  • feel like lying in the gutter
  • lying in the gutter of life
  • end up lying in the gutter

Synonyms for Lying in the gutter

  • down and out
  • destitute
  • impoverished
  • needy
  • dejected

Opposites of Lying in the gutter

  • standing tall
  • thriving
  • succeeding
  • prospering

Common mistakes with Lying in the gutter

  • 'Gutter' is often confused with 'guttered', which is a different meaning.
  • Misused in formal contexts where a more serious phrase is needed.
  • Learners might confuse 'lying in the gutter' with 'lying down', losing the metaphorical meaning.

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Lying in the gutter in other languages

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Frequently asked questions about Lying in the gutter

What does Lying in the gutter mean?

to be very poor and unhappy

What is the definition of Lying in the gutter?

To be in a state of extreme poverty or disgrace.

How do you use Lying in the gutter in a sentence?

After losing his job, he felt like he was lying in the gutter.

Can you give another example of Lying in the gutter?

She thought her life was lying in the gutter after the breakup.

What are synonyms for Lying in the gutter?

Common alternatives include down and out, destitute, impoverished, needy, dejected.

What is the opposite of Lying in the gutter?

Opposite meanings include standing tall, thriving, succeeding, prospering.

What words go with Lying in the gutter?

It commonly pairs with feel like lying in the gutter, lying in the gutter of life, end up lying in the gutter.

What are common mistakes when using Lying in the gutter?

'Gutter' is often confused with 'guttered', which is a different meaning. Misused in formal contexts where a more serious phrase is needed. Learners might confuse 'lying in the gutter' with 'lying down', losing the metaphorical meaning.

How do you pronounce Lying in the gutter?

US: //ˈlaɪ.ɪŋ ɪn ðə ˈɡʌtər//, UK: //ˈlaɪ.ɪŋ ɪn ðə ˈɡʌtə//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Lying in the gutter formal or informal?

"Lying in the gutter" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Lying in the gutter?

Often used to describe someone at their lowest point. It's informal and may not be suitable for formal situations.