Meaning:
- To have no strength or ability to get up. Often used when someone is sick
or injured, but it can be used figuratively as well.
Examples:
- Oh man, I'm flat on my back with this flu. I haven't been out of bed in
days!
- Sally's been on her back ever since she broke her leg. She's having a
really hard time getting around in her cast.
- I've been flat on my back since I lost my job. I'm really worried about how
I'll pay my bills right now.
https://www.thefreedictionary.com [edited]
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I first learned this phrase, literally, on the jiu-jitsu mat. When someone is on
top of you trying to pin you down, turn slightly into them and create an angle
using one side of your body, i.e., foot, leg, and torso so that they cannot
flatten you by just pressure. The moment their weight is off, if only for a
split second, you have a chance to weave your legs, come up on your knees, and
drive forward.
