Failure Idioms

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bad break

Meaning: An unlucky event or situation that happens suddenly.

Example: Missing the interview because of traffic was a bad break for Michael. Read more ➺


the writing is on the wall

Meaning: A clear sign that something bad or unwanted is going to happen.

Example: After months of falling sales and major layoffs, the writing is on the wall for the struggling company. Read more ➺


moment of truth

Meaning: A critical point when the real facts become known.

Example: The moment of truth came when the jury announced its final decision in court. Read more ➺


lose face

Meaning: To suffer embarrassment or humiliation in front of others.

Example: He refused to admit his mistake because he didn't want to lose face in front of his coworkers. Read more ➺


behind the times

Meaning: Outdated or old-fashioned; not keeping up with modern ideas, trends, or technology.

Example: The company's policies are behind the times, ignoring modern workplace flexibility. Read more ➺


drop the ball

Meaning: To make a mistake or fail to do something you were responsible for.

Example: The manager dropped the ball when he forgot to send the report on time. Read more ➺


kill or cure

Meaning: A drastic remedy or action that will either completely solve a problem or make it much worse.

Example: After months of poor sales, the company adopted a kill or cure strategy that would either save the business or destroy it. Read more ➺


last legs

Meaning: Extremely weak, tired, or about to collapse.

Example: After hiking all day in the heat, Sarah was on her last legs and could barely keep moving. Read more ➺


lost cause

Meaning: A hopeless situation or effort with no chance of success.

Example: The old car was a lost cause, even after endless repairs. Read more ➺


meet one’s Waterloo

Meaning: To experience a decisive and crushing defeat.

Example: After years of winning, the champion finally met his Waterloo in the finals. Read more ➺


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