Hit the buffers

usgb
phrase

To stop because something is preventing you from continuing, to fail or to act as a limitation.

Their plans for opening a new store hit the buffers when they couldn't secure the necessary funding.
Visual representation of "hit the buffers" - To stop because something is preventing you from continuing, to fail or to act as a limitation.

Often appears as...

  • plan hit the buffers
  • relationship hit the buffers

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "hit the buffers"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Barrier

Imagine a train stopping suddenly because the track ends - this is the essence of 'hit the buffers'.

Illustration for Metaphorical Barrier
The software development hit the buffers after the lead programmer left.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unexpected Halt

'Hit the buffers' often implies a surprise or something not planned for when a pursuit stops.

Illustration for Unexpected Halt
Their expansion plans hit the buffers when the market crashed.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Negative Outcome

The phrase usually has a negative connotation, suggesting disappointment or failure.

Illustration for Negative Outcome
The peace talks hit the buffers due to irreconcilable differences.
Visual representation of the word "Hit the buffers"

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