fall flat
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb phrase: - To fail completely; to not achieve the intended effect or result. It describes an attempt, performance, or idea that is unsuccessful, disappointing, or ineffective.
Usage
This phrase is used to describe situations where an effort does not succeed or produce the desired impact. It often implies a sense of disappointment or anticlimax. It is commonly used in contexts involving performances, jokes, plans, or attempts at persuasion.
Examples
- The comedian's new routine fell flat with the audience; no one laughed.
- Despite careful planning, the marketing campaign fell flat and did not increase sales.
- Her attempt at a heartfelt apology fell flat because it seemed insincere.
- The grand finale of the fireworks show fell flat due to technical problems.
Advanced Usage
- "to fall flat on its face": An emphatic variant meaning to fail in a very obvious or embarrassing way.
- The new policy fell flat on its face and was withdrawn within a week.
Variants and Related Words
- Flop (verb/noun): To fail completely; a complete failure. (e.g., )
- Bomb (verb, informal): To fail miserably. (e.g., )
Synonyms
- Founder: To fail or break down.
- Misfire: To fail to achieve the intended result.
- Fail: To not succeed.
Related Idioms
- Go over like a lead balloon: To be received very poorly; to fail to generate interest or enthusiasm.
- His suggestion to cancel the holiday party went over like a lead balloon.
Verb
- fail utterly; collapse
- The project foundered