Dead in the water Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If something is 'dead in the water,' it has stopped progressing and has no chance of success. It originally referred to a boat unable to move, but now is used for projects, plans, or ideas that aren’t going anywhere.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and slightly vivid. Common in business or project contexts. Used only for things (not people): 'The project is dead in the water.' Very rarely literal; almost always metaphorical.
Example Sentences
The project is dead in the water after losing funding.
basic
Once the company stopped supporting it, the software was dead in the water.
basic
His idea was dead in the water before it even started.
basic
After that scandal, their campaign is pretty much dead in the water.
natural
Without public interest, the proposal is clearly dead in the water.
natural
Everyone knew the merger was dead in the water the moment the board refused.
natural