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Region: General | Usage example: The vendor’s delay threw a wrench in the works.

Throw a wrench in the works

Meaning

Disrupt a plan or process.

Usage

Used when unexpected issues hinder progress.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Machinery metaphor referencing literal wrenches.

Industrial Revolution imagery turned idiomatic by the 20th century.

Related Idioms

Throw a spanner in the works

To cause a disruption or unexpected problem.

Throw in the towel

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

A stone's throw

A very short distance.

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.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.