It Won’t Fly: Learn what the means through example!

What does “It Won’t Fly” mean?

"It won't fly" means that a certain idea, plan, or proposal will not be successful or accepted.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I tried to convince my boss to implement my idea, but he said it won't fly.

Example

The new marketing campaign idea won't fly with our target audience.

Example

I suggested a change in our company policies, but it was quickly shut down because it won't fly

Is “It Won’t Fly” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“It Won’t Fly” 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 “It Won’t Fly” effectively in context?

You can use "It Won't Fly" to express that an idea, proposal, or plan will not be successful or accepted. It emphasizes the lack of feasibility or viability. For example, if a friend suggests a risky investment opportunity, you might say, 'I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I think that idea won't fly.'

• 1. Work

  I tried to convince my boss to implement my idea, but he said it won't fly.

• 2. Marketing

  The new marketing campaign idea won't fly with our target audience.

• 3. Company Policies

  I suggested a change in our company policies, but it was quickly shut down because it won't fly.

Similar phrases to “It Won’t Fly”:

Fall flat

To fail or be unsuccessful

Example

Despite their efforts, the new product launch fell flat.

Go over like a lead balloon

To be poorly received or fail to impress

Example

His joke went over like a lead balloon; nobody laughed.

Hit a brick wall

To encounter an obstacle or reach a point where progress is impossible

Example

They hit a brick wall when trying to secure funding for their project.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “It Won’t Fly” come from?

The origin of the phrase "It Won't Fly" is unknown.

Is “It Won’t Fly” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "It Won't Fly" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their skepticism or to convey that something is not feasible or acceptable.

What tone does “It Won’t Fly” have?

"It Won't Fly" conveys a tone of skepticism or dismissal. It's often used to express doubt or disagreement with an idea or proposal.

Can “It Won’t Fly” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "It Won't Fly" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of something being unsuccessful or not accepted. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, presentations, 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, 'I presented my idea, but my boss said it won't fly.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That idea? It won't fly!' to express disbelief or disagreement.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• not work
• not succeed
• not be viable
• not be feasible
• not be acceptable

Antonyms

• succeed
• take off
• be accepted
• be feasible
• be viable