Come unstuck

usgb
phrase

To fail or encounter problems, especially after initial success.

After starting the project very well, they came unstuck when they hit unexpected complications.
Visual representation of "come unstuck" - To fail or encounter problems, especially after initial success.

Often appears as...

  • plans come unstuck
  • things come unstuck

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "come unstuck"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Setbacks

Used when something goes wrong suddenly after a period of doing well.

Illustration for Unexpected Setbacks
The team had won five matches, but came unstuck in the final.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

Primarily used in informal speech and writing rather than formal or business contexts.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
He thought he'd fixed the engine, but it came unstuck on the test drive.
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Avoid Literal Use

Not typically used in the literal sense of becoming unstuck; usually figurative for plans or efforts failing.

Illustration for Avoid Literal Use
Her strategy for the exam came unstuck, leading to a lower grade.
Visual representation of the word "Come unstuck"

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