caught in a cleft stick

The phrase "caught in a cleft stick" is an idiomatic expression that conveys being in a difficult or challenging situation with no easy solution or means of escape. It originates from the image of a stick with two diverging branches or prongs (a cleft) that traps or holds something tightly in between, making it difficult to move or extricate oneself. This phrase implies being stuck between two equally unfavorable options or conflicting circumstances, often feeling trapped or helpless.