Idiom
throw a spanner in the works
Meanings
To cause a sudden problem that disrupts progress or prevents something from working as planned.
Definition
To throw a spanner in the works means to cause an unexpected problem that stops or delays a plan or process.
To throw a spanner in the works means to disrupt something that was working smoothly. It refers to an unexpected problem or action that creates delays, confusion, or failure. People often use it when a plan is going well but something suddenly interferes.
Examples
- The supplier delay threw a spanner in the works and pushed our launch back a week.
- I was ready to sign the contract, but the new rule threw a spanner in the works.
- His last-minute injury threw a spanner in the works for the team’s training plan.
- We had everything organized until the storm threw a spanner in the works.
- A missing document threw a spanner in the works during the application process.
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 idiom (verb phrase)s
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share a quick update or confirm plans.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to tease someone or make fun of them in a not-too-serious way.
- drop the ball To drop the ball means to make a mistake or fail to do something important that you were responsibl…
- have a chinwag To have a chinwag means to have a friendly, informal chat with someone.
- face the music To accept and deal with the unpleasant consequences of your actions or a difficult situation.