in the middle of

in the middle

In a position between two or more sides in an argument or contentious issue, often leaving one without a clear course of action to satisfy either side. When my friends broke up, I was often caught in the middle, as each one complained to me about the other.See also: middle

in the middle of (something or some place)

1. Literally, physically located at the center of something or some place. We're in the middle of the crowd, so it will take us a while to push our way out. Listening to my music, I wandered until I realized I was in the middle of the woods, with no idea which path I took.2. During, in the midst of, or while currently engaging in something, such as an activity. I'm in the middle of a meeting right now, can I call you back? Then, right in the middle of the concert, he walked offstage.See also: middle, of

in the middle of

1. Also, in the midst of. During, while engaged in, as in He stopped him in the middle of his speech, or I'm in the midst of calculating my income tax. The first expression dates from about 1600, the second from about 1500. Also see in the midst. 2. in the middle of nowhere. In a very remote location, as in We found a great little hotel, out in the middle of nowhere. [Early 1900s] See also: middle, of

in the middle

1. In a difficult situation: caught in the middle of a controversy.2. Engaged in doing something: I'm in the middle of making dinner.See also: middle