⚾ Two Strikes Against Someone: Overcoming the Odds ⚖️

An exploration into the origins of the idiom 'two strikes against someone,' revealing the resilience required to overcome adversity.

Two Strikes Against Someone/Something, To Have ⚾

Definition: To be at a disadvantage right from the start, with a higher risk of failure due to existing challenges or circumstances. The idiom originates from baseball, where a batter with two strikes faces the pressure of having only one chance left to swing successfully before being called out.

Behind the Eight Ball: In a difficult or challenging situation, akin to being in a nearly impossible position.
Fighting an Uphill Battle: Struggling against forces or circumstances that make success more challenging.
Starting on the Back Foot: Being at a disadvantage or behind right from the beginning.
Against the Grain: Something contrary to general norms and expectations, which is more difficult to accomplish.
Long Shot: A situation with a low probability of success, much like betting on something unlikely.

Synonyms

Disadvantaged
Hampered
Hindering
At a disadvantage
Behind

Antonyms

Advantageous
Fortunate
Well-placed
Favorable
In the lead

Humor-Filled Quotes

“Being two strikes down is like realizing you’re allergic to life, right from the start!” — Anon

“When life gives you two strikes, just remember: the best world records were set with their backs against the wall.” — W. T. Wittywords

Famous Proverbs

“When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
“It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up.” — Vince Lombardi

Literature and Reference

Books: “Ashes to Ashes” by Tami Hoag, where characters must often face overwhelming odds.
Songs: “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, an anthem for fighting against the odds.
Movies: “Rocky,” symbolizing resilience and fighting spirit against overwhelming challenges.
Poetry: “Invictus” by William Ernest Henley, emphasizing an unconquerable soul in the face of hardships.

Inspirational and Thought-Provoking Farewell

Remember, life may throw curveballs, but with the heart of a champion, two strikes become merely stepping stones on the path to triumph. Keep swinging, never give up.

Quizzes: Test Your Knowledge on Overcoming Odds and Idioms

### What does the idiom 'to have two strikes against someone' imply? - [x] They are at a disadvantage. - [ ] They are practicing baseball. - [ ] They have a medical condition. - [ ] They lost their wallet. > **Explanation:** It implies that someone is at a disadvantage and has a higher risk of failure from the start. ### Which expression is synonymous with 'two strikes against someone'? - [ ] On cloud nine - [x] Behind the eight ball - [ ] Over the moon - [ ] Crying over spilled milk > **Explanation:** 'Behind the eight ball' similarly implies being in a difficult or disadvantageous position. ### True or False: The idiom 'two strikes against someone' has no relation to baseball. - [ ] True - [x] False > **Explanation:** False. This idiom originates from baseball where a batter faces disadvantage after receiving two strikes. ### Which scenario best exemplifies 'two strikes against someone'? - [ ] Winning a lottery without buying a ticket - [ ] Running a race with a 10-second head start - [ ] Starting a new job after losing your previous one due to budget cuts and dealing with a chronic illness - [ ] Flying first class on a vacation > **Explanation:** Starting a new job after losing the previous one due to budget cuts while dealing with a chronic illness best illustrates having two strikes against someone. ### Identify the correct phrase that defines overcoming two strikes against you: - [ ] Sweeping the floor with the broom of justice - [x] Against all odds - [ ] Cat's out of the bag - [ ] Piece of cake > **Explanation:** 'Against all odds' implies achieving success despite facing challenges, akin to overcoming two strikes against you. ### Which idiom describes starting at a disadvantage? - [ ] In the same boat - [ ] Piece of pie - [x] Starting on the back foot - [ ] Every dog has its day > **Explanation:** 'Starting on the back foot' describes beginning a task or endeavor at a disadvantage.