English in a Minute: High and Dry

Welcome to English in a Minute!

High and dry are both common adjectives. But what does the idiom “high and dry” mean? Let’s find out.

D: If you know of anyone who needs a room in a great apartment, let me know.
A: I thought you had a roommate. What happened?
D: He left me high and dry. I came home the other night, and he was just gone.
A: Speaking of leaving you high and dry, I can’t help with your party tonight. Sorry.
D: What is with people!?

High and dry means to leave someone in a tough situation or to make life difficult for them. Usually this happens because you neglect to do something you were supposed to do.

And that’s English in a Minute.

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Can you explain the grammar of the sentence: usually this happens because you neglect to do something you were supposed to do? Why don’t we use “was” instead of “were” in that sentence. Thanks for your help!