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Definitions

on the ropes

ADJECTIVE
enervated
Synonyms
STRONG
debilitated deteriorated devitalized enfeebled fatigued incapacitated languishing limp paralyzed prostrate prostrated sapped spent tired undermined unnerved vitiated weakened
WEAK
done in feeble gone to seed lackadaisical languid languorous listless out of condition out of gas out of shape run down rusty soft spiritless washed out weak
Antonyms
STRONG
active energized invigorated refreshed straight strong
WEAK
activated animated enthusiastic lively strengthened

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The USC men’s basketball team had its opponent on the ropes midway through the first half, but was unable to deliver the knockout blow Saturday afternoon at Galen Center.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 17, 2026

Exeter, defending a single-point lead, were on the ropes late on against Saracens as the hosts fired up their driven maul and motored towards the line.

From BBC • Dec. 22, 2025

City were on the ropes and just about absorbing shots as they clung on for the points.

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2025

With Newcastle on the ropes, Adama Boiro lashed a ferocious strike off the woodwork from 18 yards.

From Barron's • Nov. 5, 2025

Yank on the ropes, watch the silly wooden soldier jump and twitch.

From "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien