Failure Idioms
Page 4 of 4
Meaning: a comment or a prophecy that is expected to be proved incorrect
Example: I was thinking that I will not have dinner today. Famous last words, I am very hungry. Read more ➺
Meaning: go insane or crazy
Example: I thought he had lost it when he told me how much his new car had cost. Read more ➺
Meaning: To lose energy, motivation, or enthusiasm and be unable to continue.
Example: After starting with strong energy and high confidence, the company ran out of steam and could not continue at the same pace. Read more ➺
Meaning: to be doing something that will definitely have a negative outcome
Example: The trip was up a blind alley it seems because the travel agent could not even jot down a proper itinerary. I wonder why they booked a holiday with such a shady company anyway. Read more ➺
Meaning: be poorly received by an audience
Example: The joke he cracked went down like a lead balloon. Read more ➺
Meaning: A brief but intense effort or success that doesn't lead to lasting or repeated results.
Example: It seemed promising early on, but flash in the pan efforts often fizzle without follow-through. Read more ➺
Meaning: be very close to accomplishing a goal but fall short
Example: You did quite well for someone who was playing for the first time. You attempt for close, but no cigar. Read more ➺
Meaning: a situation in which you must take a big risk in order to avoid failure
Example: A do-or-die attempt to halt the invaders. Read more ➺
Meaning: to not succeed at something
Example: The minister came a cropper as soon as she was elected. Hence she was transferred from her ministry and given something else to do in the cabinet. Read more ➺
