Not have a leg to stand on
/nɒt hæv ə leɡ tə stænd ɒn/informalUK · US
What does “Not have a leg to stand on” mean?
Not have a leg to stand on means to have no sound argument or evidence to support your position
If a recording disproves your version of an event, you may not have a leg to stand on. Your argument lacks a sound basis.
This is the speaker’s judgement. Others may disagree about what the evidence proves.
When do people say it?
Use it when facts or evidence leave someone unable to defend a claim. It does not mean simply being unpopular or outnumbered.
“The video showed me crossing the line, so I did not have a leg to stand on.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The image treats an argument as something that needs support to stay upright. Without that support, the position cannot stand.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Not have a leg to stand on” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-10-01