Between the hammer and anvil is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe a situation where someone is caught in a difficult position with no easy way out. Common synonyms for this expression include "between a rock and a hard place," "catch-22," "on the horns of a dilemma," "stuck between two stools," and "in a dilemma." All of these phrases suggest a sense of being trapped between two opposing forces, with no clear path to safety or resolution. Whether dealing with personal decisions or difficult choices in the workplace, finding oneself "between the hammer and anvil" can be a stressful and challenging experience.