Go down the tube/tubes

usgb
verb

To become worse or fail.

Without proper management, the company will go down the tubes.
Visual representation of "go down the tube/tubes" - To become worse or fail

Often appears as...

  • go down the tube
  • plans going down the tubes

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial,Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "go down the tube/tubes"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Figurative Meaning

Used metaphorically for situations that deteriorate, not just physical objects going inside a tube.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
His academic performance went down the tubes after he started playing video games.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Colloquial Usage

It's a casual phrase, more suitable for conversations than formal writing.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
I heard their project went down the tube - what a bummer!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Negative Connotation

The phrase implies a negative outcome and is often associated with disappointment.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
After the lead actor quit, the film production went down the tubes.
Visual representation of the word "Go down the tube/tubes"

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