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down and out
/daʊn ænd aʊt/◆idiom
destitute and desperate
After losing his job and home, he was completely down and out.
He had no money, no place to live, and felt utterly hopeless.
informal
Without money, resources, or hope; in a state of extreme poverty or despair.
The charity helps people who are down and out get back on their feet.
It supports those who have fallen into poverty and need urgent assistance.
After the recession, many families found themselves down and out.
The economic downturn left many without work or savings.
Often used to describe someone who has lost everything and has no support system.
Collocations
feel down and outto feel utterly hopeless or defeatedend up down and outto reach a state of complete poverty or despair
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid literal interpretation
Do not confuse 'down and out' with physical exhaustion or a literal fall. It always refers to a state of poverty or despair.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Use 'down and out' only for situations involving financial ruin, personal failure, or extreme hardship. It is not used for temporary setbacks.
Word Origin
The phrase originated in the early 20th century, likely from boxing slang where a fighter 'down and out' was knocked unconscious. The figurative sense of being defeated or helpless emerged shortly after.
Usage Notes
This idiom is informal and carries a strong emotional tone. It is often used in contexts of financial ruin, personal failure, or social collapse. Avoid using it in formal or professional settings.
Word Breakdown
down
in a low or depressed state
rootand
connecting the two states
conjunctionout
without resources or hope
rootEnglish Dictionary