Come to grief Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To fail badly, have serious problems, or suffer an accident; often used when someone or something meets with trouble or disaster.
Usage & Nuances
This is a formal or literary idiom, not common in everyday conversation. Often relates to unexpected bad outcomes, especially accidents or plans failing. Can describe people or things ('The plan came to grief'). Do not confuse with 'come to sorrow,' which is less common.
Example Sentences
The car came to grief on the icy road.
basic
Several hikers came to grief in the storm.
basic
The old plan finally came to grief.
basic
If you drive too fast on wet roads, you might come to grief.
natural
Everyone warned her, but she still came to grief trying that shortcut.
natural
Many quick-fix diets come to grief when people can't keep up with them.
natural