In Australia it means that you're in a lot of trouble, with no foreseeable way out.
"Oh man, I can't believe I lost my paperwork; that stuff took me hours and it needs to be in by tomorrow!"
"Sounds like you're up shit creek without a paddle, mate."
Originally a surfer term. A person who plays in the white water and is afraid to stray from the beach. Can more largely be referred to someone who is afraid to take a risk.
A phrase often used on people in trouble or requesting help. Unlike conventional phrases, it means that you can't help them, and they're on their own. Coined by a bystander watching a man trying to fight pirates off his paddle boat, but was overpowered.
Usually used in cases when the troubled person has no hope of winning otherwise, or is very likely to fail without outside support.
Soldier: "Sir! The enemy broke through our defenses! We can't hold them off!"
Commander: "USE THE PADDLES!"
Student 1: "Hey, I forgot to study for the test today. Any advice you could give me?"
Student 2: "Well, I guess you have to use the paddles."
Student 1: "Aw, shit."
Nickname given to bales of marijuana thrown overboard or out of airplanes. Origin is reportedly from members of the US Coast Guard in the area of Southern Florida.