Idiom
throw a spanner in the works
To throw a spanner in the works means to cause a problem that stops or delays a plan or process.
Meanings
To cause an unexpected problem that disrupts or delays an activity, plan, or process.
Definition
If something throws a spanner in the works, it creates an unexpected difficulty that disrupts progress. It often refers to plans, schedules, negotiations, or systems that were running smoothly. In British English, it is similar to American English “throw a wrench in the works.”
Examples
- The sudden power cut threw a spanner in the works and the event started late.
- His injury threw a spanner in the works for the team’s training schedule.
- A missing document threw a spanner in the works during the visa application.
- The supplier’s delay threw a spanner in the works for our product launch.
Common mistake
Learners often change the article or preposition (e.g., saying “throw spanner into the works” instead of “throw a spanner in the works”).
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 updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More idiom (verb phrase)s
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share updates, confirm plans, or check progress.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to mock someone or tease them in an unkind or cheeky way.
- drop the ball To drop the ball means to make a mistake or fail to do something you were responsible for.
- have a chinwag To have a chinwag means to have a relaxed, friendly chat with someone.
- face the music To accept and deal with the unpleasant consequences of what you have done or a difficult situation.