Be/go up the spout

usgb
verb

To go wrong or to fail.

Their plans for the vacation went up the spout when the car broke down
Visual representation of "be/go up the spout" - To go wrong or to fail

Often appears as...

  • plans go up the spout
  • things went up the spout

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "be/go up the spout"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Colloquial Usage

Used in casual conversation, not in formal or written English.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
I'm afraid our little plan has gone up the spout, hasn't it?
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Outcome

Implies a disappointment or an unexpected negative turn of events.

Illustration for Negative Outcome
The whole project went up the spout when the funding was cut.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Sudden Failure

Often used when something fails suddenly or unexpectedly.

Illustration for Sudden Failure
The deal went up the spout after the CEO quit.
Visual representation of the word "Be/go up the spout"

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