Definition
Used to describe a situation where something barely succeeds or only just happens, often due to a very narrow margin or with great difficulty.
Origin / Etymology
The phrase is believed to originate from the Bible, specifically from the Book of Job (Job 19:20), where it is written: 'I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me.' The phrase was later adapted to describe situations where success or survival is achieved by the narrowest of margins.
Correct Usage Examples
- Despite the odds, the team won the game by the skin of their teeth.
- The company barely avoided bankruptcy by the skin of its teeth.
- She passed the exam by the skin of her teeth after studying all night.
Common Misspellings
By the skin of your teath, By the skin of your teethes, By the skin of your teeths, By the skin of your teethy
Related Phrases
FAQ
What does 'by the skin of your teeth' mean?
It means that something barely succeeded or only just happened, often due to a very narrow margin or with great difficulty.
Where does the phrase 'by the skin of your teeth' come from?
The phrase is believed to originate from the Bible, specifically from the Book of Job, where it is used to describe a narrow escape or a close call.
How is 'by the skin of your teeth' commonly used in sentences?
It is commonly used to describe situations where success or survival is achieved by the narrowest of margins, such as 'The team won the game by the skin of their teeth.'
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