Fall at the first fence: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Fall at the first fence” mean?

"Fall at the first fence" means to fail or give up at the very beginning of a task or challenge.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He fell at the first fence and didn't even attempt the rest of the race.

Example

She was determined not to fall at the first fence and worked hard to overcome the initial obstacles.

Example

The team's lack of preparation caused them to fall at the first fence and lose the game

Is “Fall at the first fence” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Fall at the first fence” 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 “Fall at the first fence” effectively in context?

You can use "Fall at the first fence" to describe someone who fails or gives up at the very beginning of a task or challenge. It emphasizes the idea of not even attempting to continue after encountering initial difficulties. For example, if a friend starts a new business but gives up after facing the first obstacle, you might say, 'He fell at the first fence and didn't even try to overcome the rest of the challenges.'

• 1. Sports

  He fell at the first fence and didn't even attempt the rest of the race.

• 2. Personal Development

  She was determined not to fall at the first fence and worked hard to overcome the initial obstacles.

• 3. Work

  The team's lack of preparation caused them to fall at the first fence and lose the game.

Similar phrases to “Fall at the first fence”:

Throw in the towel

To give up or surrender

Example

After facing multiple setbacks, he decided to throw in the towel and quit.

Call it quits

To decide to stop doing something or end a relationship

Example

They couldn't agree on the terms, so they decided to call it quits and go their separate ways.

Give up the ghost

To stop trying or making an effort

Example

After years of struggling, he finally gave up the ghost and abandoned his dream.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Fall at the first fence” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Fall at the first fence" is unknown.

Is “Fall at the first fence” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Fall at the first fence" is not as common as some other idioms, but it is still used in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe situations where someone gives up or fails at the very beginning of a task or challenge.

What tone does “Fall at the first fence” have?

"Fall at the first fence" conveys a tone of disappointment or frustration. It implies that the person lacked determination or perseverance to continue after encountering initial difficulties.

Can “Fall at the first fence” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Fall at the first fence" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes a specific type of failure. 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 is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He fell at the first fence and gave up immediately.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't fall at the first fence!' to encourage someone not to give up easily.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• quit at the first hurdle
• give up early
• throw in the sponge
• abandon at the outset
• surrender at the beginning

Antonyms

• persevere
• overcome obstacles
• push through challenges
• finish strong
• succeed against all odds