PhrasesHub

In limbo

    Definitions

      • uncertain or unresolved state
        Describing a situation where something is in a state of uncertainty, lacking a clear resolution or outcome

      • disconnected or isolated
        Referring to a person or thing being in a state of isolation or disconnection from the rest, often due to a lack of progress or development

    Examples of In limbo

    • The immigration case of the Jones family has been in limbo for six months. The government has not made a decision on their application, leaving them in a state of uncertainty and tension.

      The term "in limbo" refers to a state of uncertainty or uncertainty about one's status or future. In this example, the Jones family's immigration case has reached a stalemate, with no clear outcome or resolution in sight. They are stuck in a state of uncertainty and anticipation, waiting for the government to make a decision.

    • The developer's proposal for the new housing development has been in limbo for over a year. The city council has not yet approved the plans, leaving the project in a state of uncertainty and doubt.

      In this example, the proposed development project has been put on hold, with no clear decision from the city council. This leaves the developer in a state of uncertainty and inaction, as they wait for the necessary approvals to move forward with the project.

    • The inheritance case for the late grandfather's estate has been in limbo for several months. The court is still processing the paperwork, leaving the heirs in a state of uncertainty and frustration.

      In this example, the distribution of the grandfather's estate has been delayed due to administrative issues, leaving the heirs in a state of uncertainty and uncertainty about when they will receive their inheritance.

    • The promotion of the marketing executive has been in limbo for several weeks. The boss is still reviewing her performance, leaving her in a state of uncertainty and apprehension.

      In this example, the marketing executive's promotion has been put on hold while the boss evaluates her performance. This leaves the executive in a state of uncertainty and emotional tension, as she waits for the boss's decision.

    • The citizens' petition for a referendum has been in limbo for months, as the government has failed to respond to it.

      This example refers to a situation in which a petition, request, or proposal is neither accepted nor rejected, leaving it in a state of uncertainty or suspense. The phrase "in limbo" originates from Roman Catholic Church rituals, where it refers to the state of souls who have died without committing grave sin or being absolved, and are waiting in suspense for judgment after death. In this instance, the petition is awaiting a decision from the government without any clear indication of whether it will be accepted or rejected, leaving it in a state of limbo.

    • The case of the missing person has been in limbo ever since the police failed to provide any substantial leads.

      This example refers to a situation in which an investigation, case, or search is in a state of uncertainty or stalemate. The term "limbo" in this context describes the situation in which there has been little or no progress made in resolving a case or finding a missing person, leaving it in a state of limbo or uncertainty.

    • Our business proposal has been in limbo for over a year now, as we await the decision of the investor.

      This example refers to a situation in which a proposal or decision is pending for an extended period, leaving it in a state of uncertainty or limbo. The term can be used to describe any situation in which a decision has not been made, leaving the outcome unknown or uncertain.

    • The plan for the new school was put on hold and has been in limbo ever since the budget was revised.

      This example refers to a situation in which a plan or project is temporarily postponed, leaving it in a state of uncertainty or limbo. The term can be used to describe any situation in which a plan or project has been delayed, leaving its future uncertain or unknown. The phrase "put on hold" implies that the plan or project may be resumed at a later time, whereas "in limbo" suggests a more uncertain or indefinite outcome.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "in limbo" is used to describe a state of uncertainty or unresolved situation. It can also refer to a person or thing being disconnected or isolated from the rest due to a lack of progress or development. It is often used to convey a feeling of being stuck or in a state of limbo with no clear resolution or progress.

    Origin of "In limbo"

    The origin of the idiom "in limbo" can be traced back to Latin, where "limbo" referred to the edge or boundary of something. In Christian theology, "limbo" was used to describe a place on the edge of Hell where the souls of unbaptized infants were believed to reside. Over time, the term "in limbo" came to be used figuratively to describe a state of uncertainty or unresolved situation.

    The idiom has been used in English since the 17th century, and its original religious connotations have evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings related to uncertainty and isolation. Today, "in limbo" is a commonly used idiom to convey a sense of being in a state of uncertainty or disconnection.