What does “Up the spout” mean?
"Up the spout" means that something is ruined or lost.
What context can I use the in?
Example
All of my savings are up the spout after that investment.
Example
I had a great idea for a business, but it went up the spout when I couldn't secure funding.
Example
My chances of winning the game went up the spout when I made that mistake
Is “Up the spout” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Up the spout” 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 “Up the spout” effectively in context?
You can use "Up the Spout" to describe something that is ruined or lost. It often refers to a situation where something valuable or important has been wasted or destroyed. For example, if someone asks you about your recent investment and you lost all your money, you could say, 'My savings are up the spout after that investment.'
- 1Finance
All of my savings are up the spout after that investment.
- 2Business
I had a great idea for a business, but it went up the spout when I couldn't secure funding.
- 3Sports
My chances of winning the game went up the spout when I made that mistake.
Similar phrases to “Up the spout”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Up the spout” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Up the Spout" is unknown.
Is “Up the spout” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Up the Spout" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express disappointment or frustration when something valuable or important has been ruined or lost.
What tone does “Up the spout” have?
"Up the Spout" conveys a tone of disappointment or frustration. It's often used to describe a negative outcome or a missed opportunity.
Can “Up the spout” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Up the Spout" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of something being ruined or lost. 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, 'My plans for the weekend are up the spout.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Well, that's up the spout!' to express disappointment.
