be for the high jump

You are wondering about the meaning of the phrase be for the high jump, maybe you heard it in a TV show, movie or theater play. Although this idiom is not used very often, it enriches your capacity of expression and strengthens communication. In which case is the expression be for the high jump used and what is its meaning?

Meaning of "be for the high jump"

Meaning

The phrase "be for the high jump" is a slang idiom used to describe a person or situation that is about to be severely reprimanded or punished for a wrongdoing. The phrase suggests that the person is about to be taken to task in a very serious manner, as if they were about to be put through a physical high jump in the same way an athlete would.

Etymology

The origin of the phrase "be for the high jump" is thought to come from the early 20th century. It likely was derived from the high jump event in track and field, an event in which athletes attempt to jump over a high bar using a variety of techniques. The phrase is thought to have been used originally to describe someone or something that was in danger of being penalized or punished for a wrongdoing in a similar way to how an athlete is judged and awarded points based on how well they perform during a high jump event.

Usage

The phrase "be for the high jump" is most commonly used in informal and casual conversations. It is usually used as a way to describe a person or situation that is in serious trouble and may face a severe punishment or reprimand. It is also often used as a way to express fear or anxiety about a situation in which a person may be in serious trouble due to their actions.

Example Sentences

• If you get caught skipping class again, you'll be for the high jump.
• I heard that the boss is gonna have a serious talk with her, she's for the high jump.
• If I don't finish this project on time, I'm going to be for the high jump.

Beyond the Literal: Figurative Language in Idioms

Idioms often use figurative language to convey a message that is not meant to be taken literally. For instance, the idiom "bite the bullet" means to endure a painful or difficult situation without complaint, while "hold your horses" means to be patient and wait. Other idioms, like "kick the bucket" or "pop your clogs," use euphemisms to talk about death.