Sayings

It was the last straw that broke the camel's back

This page is about the saying "It was the last straw that broke the camel's back"

Possible meaning:
There is a limit to everything. We can load the camel with lots of straw, but finally it will be too much and the camel's back will break. And it is only a single straw that breaks its back - the last straw. This can be applied to many things in life. People often say "That's the last straw!" when they will not accept any more of something.

Note:
straw (noun) = dried stalk of grain (like dry piece of grass); camel (noun) = large long-necked animal used for riding and carrying goods in the desert

Quick Quiz

Joy said "That's the last straw! You can find yourself a new secretary!" when her boss

a. asked her to photocopy a letter

b. complimented her on her work

c. insisted that she work during her holiday
a) asked her to photocopy a letter b) complimented her on her work c) insisted that she work during her holiday

See Saying of the Day today

Contributor: Josef Essberger