Throw a wrench in the gears Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To cause a plan, process, or activity to stop or fail unexpectedly by introducing a problem or obstacle.
Usage & Nuances
Informal, North American idiom (sometimes 'throw a spanner in the works' in British English). Used when unexpected problems arise and interrupt a plan or smooth-running process. Often said about outside interference, bad luck, or surprising obstacles. Common with words like 'accident', 'delay', 'problem'. Not used for positive outcomes.
Example Sentences
A power outage threw a wrench in the gears of our meeting.
basic
Rain threw a wrench in the gears of our picnic plans.
basic
A missing document threw a wrench in the gears of the project.
basic
Everything was going smoothly until the supplier delay threw a wrench in the gears.
natural
We were almost finished, but last-minute changes really threw a wrench in the gears.
natural
Don't let one mistake throw a wrench in the gears—we can fix this!
natural