Idiom
close but no cigar
Meanings
Almost successful, but not successful.
Definition
Used to say someone almost succeeded but did not quite achieve the goal.
“Close but no cigar” means a person came very near to success but ultimately failed. It is often used after a guess, attempt, or prediction that was almost correct. People usually say it in a lighthearted or teasing way after a near miss — for example a wrong quiz answer that was almost right, or a shot that nearly scored. In serious or sensitive situations it can sound dismissive, so tone matters.
Examples
- I guessed the password on my third try—close but no cigar.
- Her shot hit the rim and bounced out; close but no cigar.
- We were close but no cigar on the deal because the terms changed at the last minute.
- You were almost right — close but no cigar.
Common mistake
Use it only for near misses — not for attempts that were nowhere close. Also avoid it when someone is upset about a serious failure; it can sound teasing.
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