Something that you can do in a pinch can be done if it is really necessary, but it will be difficult, not perfect, or not what you would really like: I need $20,000 to set up the business, but I suppose $15,000 would do in a pinch.

What does it will do in a pinch mean?

US. : in a bad situation when help is needed I can help out in a pinch if you need a babysitter. In a pinch, you can substitute another ingredient in the recipe.

What does pinch mean in slang?

Pinch means to squeeze between two surfaces, such as the thumb and a finger, or to pluck off the end of a plant, or to be frugal with money, or is slang for stealing. An example of pinch is for a child to squeeze his brother's arm between his index finger and thumb.