What does “Back to the drawing board” mean?
"Back to the drawing board" means to start over or come up with a new plan because the previous one failed or was not successful.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Our project didn't go as planned, so it's back to the drawing board for us.
Example
The first design was rejected, so we had to go back to the drawing board and come up with something new.
Example
After receiving negative feedback, the team decided it was time to go back to the drawing board and rethink their strategy
Is “Back to the drawing board” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Back to the drawing board” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Back to the drawing board” effectively in context?
You can use "Back to the drawing board" when a plan or idea fails and you need to start over or come up with a new approach. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this idiom effectively:
- 1Project Management
Our project didn't go as planned, so it's back to the drawing board for us.
- 2Design
The first design was rejected, so we had to go back to the drawing board and come up with something new.
- 3Strategy
After receiving negative feedback, the team decided it was time to go back to the drawing board and rethink their strategy.
Similar phrases to “Back to the drawing board”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Back to the drawing board” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Back to the drawing board" can be traced back to the early 20th century. It originated in the field of engineering and design, where architects and engineers would use a drawing board to create their plans and blueprints. If a design or plan was unsuccessful, they would have to go back to the drawing board and start over.
Is “Back to the drawing board” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Back to the drawing board" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used in professional settings, such as business meetings or project discussions, but can also be used in informal conversations.
What tone does “Back to the drawing board” have?
"Back to the drawing board" conveys a tone of starting over and finding a new solution. It implies that the previous plan or idea was not successful and emphasizes the need for a fresh approach.
Can “Back to the drawing board” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Back to the drawing board" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of starting over or coming up with a new plan. You can use it in various contexts, such as work-related discussions, creative projects, or even personal situations.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The project failed, so it's "back to the drawing board".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Looks like it's "back to the drawing board"!' to express the need for a new plan or approach.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- reevaluate
- reconsider
- rethink
- regroup
- start afresh
Antonyms
- stay the course
- stick to the plan
- continue as planned
- follow through
