Jump the rails

usgb
phrase

To suddenly change situation, generally not in a good way.

The project had been going smoothly, but it totally jumped the rails when our main investor pulled out.
Visual representation of "jump the rails" - To suddenly change situation, generally not in a good way.

Often appears as...

  • things went smoothly until they jumped the rails
  • project jumped the rails

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "jump the rails"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Connotation

Implies an unexpected negative turn in events or plans.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Our vacation jumped the rails when the storm hit.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Usage

Used metaphorically to describe plans or processes that fail.

Illustration for Metaphorical Usage
The negotiations jumped the rails after the disagreement.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conversational Tone

Common in spoken English and informal situations.

Illustration for Conversational Tone
It seemed like an easy task, but it really jumped the rails.
Visual representation of the word "Jump the rails"

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