Long Pole in the Tent In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "Long Pole in the Tent", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

Mirabella Luu

2020-12-14 11:12

Meaning of Long Pole in the Tent

Synonyms:

bottleneck , blocking issue

Long Pole in the Tent literary negative adjective phrase

Thành ngữ không được sử dụng phổ biến.

Somebody or something that causes delay or a task that takes a long period of time to finish

Arranging the schedule for everyone is the long pole in our tent. It is taking too much time.

I will try to finish my part on time. I don't want to be the long pole in the tent.

The most important part of a project

A clear goal is the long in the tent, so we have to make decision on it first if we want a successful project.

Other phrases about:

these things are sent to try us

This idiom is often used to express that you should accept an unpleasant situation or event because you cannot change it.

The author of your own misfortune

to be blamed because of one's own problem

drastic times call for drastic measures

When you experience extreme and undesirable situations, it is probably essential to take extreme actions

to ask for trouble

to behave in a way that is likely to incur problems or difficulties

what the eye doesn't see (the heart doesn't grieve over)

You cannot feel upset, angry or worried about something if you do not know about it.

Origin of Long Pole in the Tent

The Long Pole in the Tent | 2009 | Cartoons | Steven | AAEC — The long pole in a tent determines the height of the tent and usually in the center, bears most of the weight.
(Image Source: editorialcartoonists.com)

The meaning of this idiom originated from its literal meaning.

The long pole in a tent will determine the height of the tent, just as the longest, most time consuming, part of a project will determine the length of a project. Likewise, the long pole in a tent usually is in the center, and bears most of the weight, making it the most important. Therefore, the long pole in the tent in the metaphorical sense can also be the most important. Both meanings exist, although the meaning related to delays is more common.