[be] done for
1
to be in a very dangerous situation that one may face death at any moment
The origin of the idiom "be done for" is not precisely documented, but it is considered a colloquial expression that has likely been in use for centuries, particularly in informal and spoken language. It is used to convey a sense of inevitable trouble or failure in a straightforward and easily understandable manner.
- We all thought we were done for when the boat started to sink.
- After failing to submit the project on time, he felt that his chances for a good grade were done for.
- The soccer team was trailing by five goals with only a few minutes left; they believed the game was done for.
- The car had so many mechanical problems that the mechanic declared it done for and beyond repair.
- When the unexpected storm hit the camping trip, they realized their outdoor adventure was done for and headed back home.
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2
to be certain to fail because of being in an awful situation
The origin of the idiom "be done for" is uncertain, but it may be related to the idea of something being finished or done in the sense of being completely defeated or destroyed. The phrase has been in use in English since at least the early 19th century, and it has been applied to a wide range of situations, including personal and financial struggles, as well as business and political ventures. In general, the phrase is used to describe a situation where there is little hope of success, and where failure is almost certain.
- The athlete's career was done for after a serious injury that left them unable to compete.
- The company was done for after their main investor pulled out, leaving them with no funding.
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