Get a Word in Edgeways
Meaning
To succeed in saying something, especially when others are talking continuously and making it difficult to contribute.
Origin
The imagery of 'edgeways' is key, referring to something being turned sideways to fit through a narrow opening. Imagine trying to force a thick plank through a door frame that's just a hair too small; you'd turn it 'edgeways' to wedge it through. This visual struggle was vividly applied to conversation in the 19th century. When a discussion is so full of other voices that there's no room for you to speak, your words must be like that thin plank, desperately trying to find the slightest crack or pause to squeeze through. The phrase beautifully captures the frustration and effort of trying to contribute when others dominate the verbal space, likening your voice to something being forced in with great difficulty, just barely fitting.
Examples
- It was nearly impossible to get a word in edgeways during the boisterous family dinner, as everyone was talking over each other.
- She finally managed to get a word in edgeways to ask her question when there was a momentary pause in the rapid-fire discussion.