English Idiom – Throw a spanner in the works or Put a spanner in the works.
Meaning – To do something that prevents an activity or plan from happening or being successful. This expression is used when something or someone introduces a problem, obstacle or something unexpected. A spanner in the works will cause delays to the progress of something in some way. This problem may be a result of carelessness – or sabotage.
In American English an adjustable spanner is called a monkey-wrench. As a result you might hear American people use the similar idiom – throw a monkey wrench in the works.
To remember this phrase imagine what would happen if somebody threw a spanner into a moving engine or machine. The spanner would likely cause the gears or machine parts to smash or stop working in some way.
In British English a spanner may also refer to a stupid or foolish person. “You forgot your wallet again? You are a complete spanner!” This usage is mildly offensive.
Usage:
When could you use this idiom?
- When unexpected last-minute changes cause you problems.
- If somebody makes changes to a plan – and puts the whole plan at risk.
- When somebody suddenly cannot make a prior engagement.
- A business unsuccessfully tries to release a new product.
Example:
- Bobby: “We were hoping to get married in January but now we can’t.”
- Mike: “Why not?”
- Bobby: “My future mother-in-law threw a spanner in the works! She’s going to Australia in January.”
In The News:
Discuss:
- Is there an idiom like this in your country?
What is an idiom?
An idiom is a word or phrase that is not taken literally. An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its individual words, but has a separate meaning of its own.
What is FunkyEnglish?
FunkyEnglish is a website that helps you improve your English. We offer quick lessons that teach idioms, slang, phrasal verbs and more. Visit our homepage to see our latest articles, or use the menu to find specific content!