Jason had an early morning flight to New York for an important business meeting. He set his alarm, packed his suitcase, and went to bed early.

But in the morning, disaster struck—he had accidentally set his alarm for PM instead of AM.
When he finally woke up and looked at the clock, he was already behind the eight ball.

He jumped out of bed, threw on some clothes, and dashed to the airport. On the way, he kept thinking, “This is a long shot, but maybe I can still catch the flight.”

At the airport, the line at security was huge. Jason tried to pull some strings, but the staff wouldn’t let him cut the line.

By the time he got to the gate, the plane had already left. No use crying over spilled milk, he thought. He called his boss and explained everything.

Fortunately, his boss was understanding. “You’ll get another flight this afternoon. Just keep your chin up and be ready for tomorrow’s meeting.”

Idioms Used in the Story

1. Behind the eight ball

Meaning: In a difficult or unfavorable position.

Examples:
I was behind the eight ball after missing the deadline.
If we don’t start now, we’ll be behind the eight ball.

2. Long shot

Meaning: Something that has little chance of success.

Examples:
Winning the lottery is a long shot.
It’s a long shot, but I’m applying for that scholarship.

3. Pull some strings

Meaning: To use influence or contacts to get something done.

Examples:
He pulled some strings to get her an interview.
I might be able to pull some strings and get us tickets.

4. No use crying over spilled milk

Meaning: There’s no point in being upset about something that can’t be changed.

Examples:
You missed the train—no use crying over spilled milk.
The event was canceled, but there’s no use crying over spilled milk.

5. Keep your chin up

Meaning: Stay positive and optimistic in a difficult situation.

Examples:
Keep your chin up—you’ll find another job soon.
Don’t be sad. Keep your chin up and try again.