feel the pinch

Idioms and Phrases

Be affected by hardship, especially straitened finances. For example, This job pays much less, so we're bound to feel the pinch . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

As rates rise, home buyers feel the pinch.

From Los Angeles Times

Fast food chains like McDonald's and Burger King have had to focus on offering more attractive value meals, as lower income customers feel the pinch from surging prices in recent years.

From BBC

However, businesses of all kinds would no doubt feel the pinch.

From Salon

Although the economic reforms have successfully brought down inflation and strengthened the Sri Lankan rupee, everyday Sri Lankans continue to feel the pinch.

From BBC

Sports fans will quickly feel the pinch.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• call for
• demand
• desire
• lack
• require