throw a spanner in the works
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English[edit]
Alternative forms[edit]
Pronunciation[edit]
Audio (AU) (file)
Verb[edit]
throw a spanner in the works (third-person singular simple present throws a spanner in the works, present participle throwing a spanner in the works, simple past threw a spanner in the works, past participle thrown a spanner in the works)
- (idiomatic, UK) To introduce a problem, dilemma or obstacle, something unexpected or troublesome.
- Synonyms: (US) throw a wrench in the works, throw a wrench in the gears, throw a monkey wrench in the works, gum up the works
- Halfway through the production of Macbeth, the director found that the stage was smaller than he had expected. This really threw a spanner in the works.
Translations[edit]
to introduce an obstacle or something unexpected — see also put a spoke in someone's wheel
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