out of the hole
out of the hole {adv.} or {adj. phr.}, {informal}
1a. With a score better than zero in a game; especially a card game, to a score above zero.
It took us a long time to get out of the hole in the card game.
1b. Even with an opponent after being behind; out of trouble in a sport or game.
The team played very hard, but could not get out of the hole.
2. Out of debt; ahead financially.
It was a small business, but it was wisely managed, and it kept out of the hole.
The first year was bad, but after that Fred got out of the hole.
Contrast: IN THE HOLE.
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Source: A Dictionary of American Idioms
