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From Pillar to Post

What Does "From Pillar to Post" Mean?

homeidiomsFrom Pillar to Post
"From pillar to post" is an English idiom. It means "from one place or situation to another in a hapless manner."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "from pillar to post" used in a sentence:
  • He's been sent from pillar to post trying to get the right paperwork.
  • After the eviction, the family moved from pillar to post.
  • The refugees went from pillar to post seeking a safe place.
meaning for from pillar to post

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "From Pillar to Post" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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