Go belly up

usgb
verb phrase

To fail completely, especially to go out of business.

The restaurant went belly up after a few months because no one visited.
Visual representation of "go belly up" - To fail completely, especially to go out of business.

Often appears as...

  • company went belly up
  • business went belly up

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "go belly up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Financial Ruin

Usually describes a business or venture that ends in failure, particularly financial.

Illustration for Financial Ruin
Their startup went belly up after investors pulled out.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Use

Not always literal, often used to express the end of something.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
My diet went belly up over the holidays.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Colloquial Tone

It's informal and best used in casual conversations or writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Tone
Since the scandal, the senator's career went belly up.
Visual representation of the word "Go belly up"

Never forget "Go belly up"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top