A damp squib
noun
Something that fails to deliver what was expected and is thus disappointing.
His new film turned out to be a damp squib, with both audiences and critics unimpressed.
Often appears as...
- turn out to be a damp squib
- end up a damp squib
Usage tips
Idiomatic
noun
Something that fails to deliver what was expected and is thus disappointing.
His new film turned out to be a damp squib, with both audiences and critics unimpressed.
Often appears as...
- turn out to be a damp squib
- end up a damp squib
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3British Origin
The phrase is more common in British English than American English, where it might be less recognized.
I mentioned the event was a damp squib, but my American friend didn't understand the expression.
Pro Tip 2/3Use in Disappointment
Use when describing events, projects, or plans that are less exciting or successful than expected.
The launch party was a damp squib because hardly anyone showed up.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use
It's often used metaphorically and not taken literally, referring to the 'fizzle out' aspect of an expectation.
The much-awaited sequel to the game was a damp squib compared to the original.
Pro Tip 1/3British Origin
The phrase is more common in British English than American English, where it might be less recognized.
I mentioned the event was a damp squib, but my American friend didn't understand the expression.
Pro Tip 2/3Use in Disappointment
Use when describing events, projects, or plans that are less exciting or successful than expected.
The launch party was a damp squib because hardly anyone showed up.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use
It's often used metaphorically and not taken literally, referring to the 'fizzle out' aspect of an expectation.
The much-awaited sequel to the game was a damp squib compared to the original.
Pro Tip 1/3British Origin
The phrase is more common in British English than American English, where it might be less recognized.
I mentioned the event was a damp squib, but my American friend didn't understand the expression.
Pro Tip 2/3Use in Disappointment
Use when describing events, projects, or plans that are less exciting or successful than expected.
The launch party was a damp squib because hardly anyone showed up.
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use
It's often used metaphorically and not taken literally, referring to the 'fizzle out' aspect of an expectation.
The much-awaited sequel to the game was a damp squib compared to the original.
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