The kiss of death

usgb
noun

An action or event that causes certain failure.

His poor performance in the debate was the kiss of death for his political career.
Visual representation of "the kiss of death" - An action or event that causes certain failure.

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "the kiss of death"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Outcome

Use when actions lead directly to failure, not just a small setback.

Illustration for Negative Outcome
Missing that deadline was the kiss of death for their project.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Final Blow

Emphasizes the last in a series of events that causes complete failure.

Illustration for Final Blow
The negative review was the kiss of death to the restaurant's reputation.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Metaphoric Use

Not a physical kiss, but symbolic of a destructive action or event.

Illustration for Metaphoric Use
His endorsement turned out to be the kiss of death in the election.
Visual representation of the word "The kiss of death"

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