Idiom
fall at the first hurdle
Meanings
To fail at the very start of an attempt, especially on the first challenge or requirement.
Definition
To fail very early in an attempt, before making any real progress.
If you fall at the first hurdle, you fail at the very beginning of a task or plan. It suggests you did not get past the first challenge or requirement. People often use it to talk about applications, exams, projects, or negotiations that end almost immediately.
Examples
- I practiced for weeks, but I fell at the first hurdle in the interview.
- Their deal fell at the first hurdle when the lawyers disagreed on the basic terms.
- She fell at the first hurdle because she forgot to submit the required documents.
- We can’t afford to fall at the first hurdle on launch day.
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share a quick update or confirm plans.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to tease someone or make fun of them in a not-too-serious way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More idioms
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- close but no cigar Used to say someone almost succeeded but did not quite achieve the goal.
- down to the wire If something goes down to the wire, it is decided at the very last moment before the deadline or fi…
- lost the plot To become confused or unreasonable and no longer understand what is happening or what matters.
- ducks in a row To have everything organized and ready in the correct order.