What does “Dead duck” mean?
"Dead duck" means something or someone that is certain to fail or be unsuccessful.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The new product is a dead duck; nobody wants to buy it.
Example
His plan to start a business without any experience is a dead duck.
Example
The team's chances of winning the championship are a dead duck after their star player got injured
Is “Dead duck” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Dead duck” 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 “Dead duck” effectively in context?
You can use "Dead Duck" to describe something or someone that is certain to fail or be unsuccessful. It emphasizes the lack of hope or potential for success. For example, if a friend is considering investing in a failing company, you might say, 'Don't waste your money, it's a dead duck.'
- 1Product
The new product is a dead duck; nobody wants to buy it.
- 2Business
His plan to start a business without any experience is a dead duck.
- 3Sports
The team's chances of winning the championship are a dead duck after their star player got injured.
Similar phrases to “Dead duck”:
Futile effort
An attempt that is pointless or without any chance of success
Example
Continuing to argue with him is a futile effort; he will never change his mind.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Dead duck” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Dead Duck" is unknown.
Is “Dead duck” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Dead Duck" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their certainty that something or someone will fail or be unsuccessful.
What tone does “Dead duck” have?
"Dead Duck" conveys a tone of finality and pessimism. It suggests that there is no hope or chance for success.
Can “Dead duck” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Dead Duck" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a straightforward expression that conveys the idea of something being certain to fail. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The project is a dead duck; it's not worth pursuing.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's a dead duck!' to imply that something is doomed to fail.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- goner
- hopeless case
- lost opportunity
- no chance
- certain failure
Antonyms
- golden opportunity
- winner
- triumphant
- promising venture
- surefire success
