Against the wall is a phrase that describes a person or situation that is in a difficult or challenging position. However, there are several synonyms that depict this situation more vividly. The phrase "between a rock and a hard place" refers to being in a tough situation with two equally unfavorable options. "Stuck between a rock and a hard place" means that the person has little or no room to maneuver. "Up against the ropes" implies that a person is almost defeated and has no choice but to keep fighting. "Up a creek without a paddle" describes a person who is in trouble and has no means of escaping or finding a solution to the problem. Using alternative phrases can convey a more vivid picture of the predicament.