Meanings
How to pronounce "back to the wall":
AU
(Can we clean up(+) this sense?) A very difficult situation with no beneficial options available for action.
Example Sentences
1
With his back to the wall, he fought bravely against the attackers.
2
After losing all his savings, he had his back to the wall and had to find a way to start over.
3
The company had its back to the wall when its main competitor launched a better product.
4
She performed exceptionally well in the exam, even with her back to the wall.
5
The company had to lay off several employees to survive with its back to the wall.