Go haywire

usgb
verb

To stop working correctly or to start behaving in a strange, unpredictable way.

After the software update, my computer started to go haywire.
Visual representation of "go haywire" - To stop working correctly or to start behaving in a strange, unpredictable way.

Often appears as...

  • plans go haywire
  • things go haywire

Usage tips

Colloquial,Idiomatic

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

Technology Glitches

Often used when technology fails in unpredictable ways, suggesting temporary confusion or chaos.

Illustration for Technology Glitches
My smartphone's display went haywire after I dropped it.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Plan Disruption

Use when a well-thought-out plan fails abruptly, leading to unforeseen outcomes.

Illustration for Plan Disruption
Our travel arrangements went haywire due to the storm.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Unexpected Behavior

Describes someone or something acting out of the ordinary in a sudden, confusing manner.

Illustration for Unexpected Behavior
The quiet classroom went haywire when a bee flew in.
Visual representation of the word "Go haywire"

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