the last straw
The Last Straw
/ðə læst strɔː/
Definition
Meaning: The last straw refers to the final problem or annoyance that makes a situation unbearable, leading to a breaking point.
Signification: Cette expression signifie la goutte d'eau qui fait déborder le vase, c'est-à-dire le dernier élément ou problème qui rend une situation intolérable.
Note: The idiom the last straw comes from the proverb "the straw that broke the camel's back," which illustrates how a small addition to an already burdensome situation can cause it to collapse. It is often used to describe a moment when someone can no longer tolerate or endure a situation.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» La goutte d'eau qui fait déborder le vase
» Le point de rupture
» Le dernier affront
» La coupe est pleine
» Le mot de trop
Exemple: "La promesse non tenue a été la goutte d'eau qui a fait déborder le vase. Elle l'a finalement quitté."
English synonyms
» Breaking point
» Final straw
» Tipping point
» The end of one's patience
Example: "The broken promise was the last straw. She finally left him."
Example Dialogue
Lerato: "Did you hear that the manager scheduled another meeting for Friday evening?"
Kamohelo: "What? After we've already worked late all week? That's ridiculous!"
Lerato: "Exactly. For me, this is the last straw. I'm going to talk to HR about it."
Kamohelo: "Good idea. It's about time someone said something."
Etymology
Origin: The expression the last straw originates from the proverb "the straw that broke the camel's back." This saying dates back to the 17th century and illustrates how a seemingly insignificant addition (like a single straw) can cause an already overloaded camel to collapse. The idiom has since evolved to describe a metaphorical breaking point in human endurance or tolerance. It highlights how cumulative problems or annoyances can lead to an ultimate moment of frustration or action.
Audience
The expression "the last straw" is widely recognized and understood by English speakers of all ages and backgrounds. It is a common idiom used in both casual and formal contexts, making it accessible across a range of demographics.
When to use: You can use "the last straw" in everyday conversations, storytelling, and even in professional settings to describe a breaking point in patience or tolerance. It is particularly useful when emphasizing the culmination of frustrations or problems that lead to a decisive reaction or action.
Dictionary Meaning
Here's an official definition of
by The Cambridge Dictionary
The dictionary says it's "the last in a series of unpleasant events that finally makes you feel that you cannot continue to accept a bad situation." It provides two examples: 'Losing my job was bad enough, but being evicted was the final straw.' and 'She's always been rude to me, but it was the last straw when she started insulting my mother.'
News Snippet
"The one thing we can do as a civil duty to our fellow homo-sapiens is to be more open and understanding.
Let us not take anyone for granted—they might be suffering, so do not add to their pain because you just might be the last straw and the back that breaks would be that person's life."
Read the full article at Lesotho Times
Extra! Extra!
For a fun and engaging exploration of our word of the day, the last straw, watch the following videos.
George Carlin
Definition
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Common Idioms and Expressions
The straw that broke the donkey's back: Similar to our Word of the Day but less popular.
At breaking point: A state where one can no longer tolerate a situation.
Clutching at straws: Desperately trying to find a solution, even if it's unlikely to succeed.
Draw the short straw: Be chosen to do something unpleasant or undesirable.
A straw poll: An informal survey or vote to gauge opinions.
A man of straw: A man whose character is weak and who lacks definite beliefs.
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