Draw the short straw

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

Idiomatic Usage

Used in informal situations, often to express sympathy or commiserate with someone's misfortune. Slide

At the party, I drew the short straw and had to do the dishes.

Pro Tip 2/3

Randomness Highlighted

Emphasizes that the outcome was left to chance, and not a deliberate choice. Slide

We couldn't decide who should go first, so we drew straws, and I drew the short straw.

Pro Tip 3/3

Unpleasant Tasks

Often refers to being selected for a task that is least desirable or more difficult than others. Slide

Since I drew the short straw, I have to work the late shift.