Embark on an exploration of the idiom ‘basket case’ as we unveil its meaning, trace its origin, delve into real-life examples, and illuminate the essence of this expressive phrase. Ready for a journey into language? Let’s begin!
Meaning of the Idiom
The idiom ‘basket case’ is used to describe a person or thing that is in an extremely hopeless or chaotic condition, typically due to a combination of physical, emotional, or mental distress. It conveys a sense of severe impairment or dysfunction, likening the individual or object to a basket that has fallen apart and can no longer hold its contents.
Origin of the Idiom
The origin of “basket case” can be traced back to World War I, where it was initially used to describe soldiers who had lost all their limbs and had to be carried in a basket. Over time, the term expanded its usage to refer to anyone facing extreme physical, emotional, or mental challenges. The idiom gained prominence in the mid-20th century.
10 Idiom Examples in Real-Life Conversations
1. After the car accident, Jake felt like a basket case, struggling with both physical injuries and emotional trauma.
2. The project was already a basket case before the unexpected financial crisis hit, making recovery nearly impossible.
3. Jane’s overwhelming workload and personal issues left her feeling like a basket case, unable to cope with the stress.
4. The old computer became a basket case after years of neglect, and no amount of repair could bring it back to life.
5. Mark’s financial troubles and strained relationships turned him into a basket case, affecting every aspect of his life.
6. The company’s leadership was seen as a basket case, unable to make sound decisions and leading the organization into chaos.
7. The local economy became a basket case following the natural disaster, with businesses closing down and people struggling to rebuild.
8. The once-thriving neighborhood turned into a basket case due to neglect, crime, and a lack of community support.
9. Despite numerous attempts at rehabilitation, the historic building remained a basket case, crumbling and in danger of collapse.
10. As the team faced consecutive losses and internal conflicts, their performance became a basket case, raising concerns about their future.
10 Quotes Using the Idiom
1. “In the aftermath of the financial crisis, the economy resembled a basket case, requiring extensive efforts to rebuild and recover.” – Unknown
2. “Facing a series of setbacks, the once-promising startup became a basket case, illustrating the challenges of entrepreneurship.” – Unknown
3. “Personal struggles turned her life into a basket case, but with resilience and support, she gradually found her way to recovery.” – Unknown
4. “The political turmoil left the nation in a state of uncertainty, resembling a basket case in need of stability and strong leadership.” – Unknown
5. “The neglected building stood as a silent witness to urban decay, gradually becoming a basket case of architectural ruin.” – Unknown
6. “Crisis after crisis turned the once-flourishing industry into a basket case, struggling to adapt to changing market dynamics.” – Unknown
7. “Individuals facing chronic health issues often feel like a basket case, navigating the challenges of both physical and emotional well-being.” – Unknown
8. “As relationships crumbled and debts piled up, his life turned into a basket case, requiring a fresh start and a new perspective.” – Unknown
9. “The environmental disaster turned the once-pristine landscape into a basket case, highlighting the fragility of our ecosystems.” – Unknown
10. “Navigating the complexities of modern society can sometimes feel like dealing with a basket case, requiring resilience and adaptability.” – Unknown
Idioms Starting From Letter B
Each and every letter of the English alphabet has hundreds of idioms. As in this post, we are talking about the idiom beginning with the letter B. There are many other idioms that also start with the ‘B’, which can be useful to you. We have gathered all the B-starting idiomatic expressions on a single page to make it easy for you to find the best and most useful idioms starting with the letter B.
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