← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: His attempt to launch a new feature went down in flames.

Go down in flames

Meaning

Fail spectacularly.

Usage

Used for dramatic collapses.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Aviation accidents often involving fire.

Mid-20th-century news coverage of plane crashes.

Related Idioms

Down to the wire

Until the very last moment.

Caught with your pants down

Surprised while unprepared.

Keep your head down

Avoid drawing attention, especially in difficult situations.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.