[in the hole]
{adv.} or {adj. phr.}, {informal} 1a. Having a scorelower than zero in a game,
especially a card game; to a score belowzero.
John went three points in the
hole on the first hand of thecard game.
1b. Behind an opponent; in difficulty
in a sport or game.
We had their pitcher in the hole with the bases full and
no oneout.
Compare: ON THE SPOT. 2. In debt; behind financially.
Johnwent in
the hole with his hot dog stand.
It's a lot easier to getin the hole than to
get out again.
Compare: IN A HOLE, IN THE RED.Contrast: OUT OF THE
HOLE.
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