ill afford {sth}
1
to be unable to do or finish something without being harmed or suffering its consequences
The idiom "ill afford something" is used to indicate that someone or something cannot bear the burden of a particular action, cost, or responsibility due to financial constraints or unfavorable circumstances. The origin of this phrase can be traced to the idea of financial hardship and the ability to withstand or manage expenses.
- We're already over budget on this project, and we can ill afford any additional expenses.
- She's working two part-time jobs to make ends meet, so she can ill afford any unexpected bills right now.
- The small business owner knew he could ill afford to lose any more customers during the pandemic.
- With the family's current financial situation, they can ill afford to take an extravagant vacation this year.
- He had a tight schedule and could ill afford any distractions if he wanted to meet his deadlines.