The term 'in a tight spot' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: 'STUCK' and 'Hobson's Choice'. 'STUCK' is a 5-letter word that means to be unable to move or progress. 'Hobson's Choice' is a 13-letter phrase that refers to a situation in which a person has no real choice and must accept the only option available. The phrase originates from Thomas Hobson, an English stable keeper who offered customers the choice of taking the horse in the stall nearest the door or none at all. This phrase is often used to describe a situation in which someone is forced to accept an undesirable option.