Example: Si no estudias, tienes las de perder en el examen.
Definition
"Tener las de perder" is a Spanish expression meaning to be likely to lose or to face unfavorable odds in a situation. It is often used to describe scenarios where someone is at a disadvantage or expected to fail, such as in a competition or challenge.
Translations
to be at a disadvantage
de slechte kaarten hebben
tenir les de perdre
être désavantagé
schlechte Karten haben
Etymology
The phrase "tener las de perder" literally translates to 'to have the losing ones,' referring to holding the losing cards or chances. Its origin is rooted in card games, where having the losing cards meant a higher chance of defeat. This phrase evolved into a metaphor for generally unfavorable situations.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Tener las de perder" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (C1) - parte 1", containing 120 commonly used expressions.
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to be at a disadvantage