What are the definitions of “fall through”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

1Be unsuccessful.
The plans FELL THROUGH when planning permission was refused.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall through”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall through is when something, such as a plan or arrangement, fails to happen or be completed successfully. For example, a project might fall through if it doesn't receive enough funding or if there are unexpected obstacles.

What are the different verb forms of “fall through”?

Root Verb	fall through
Third Person Singular Present	falls through
Present Participle	falling through
Simple Past	fell through
Past Participle	fallen through

Example

Our vacation plans fell through because of the bad weather.

Example

She hopes her job interview doesn't fall through.

Example

The deal is falling through due to disagreements between the parties.

Example

The concert fell through when the main performer got sick.

Example

Their plans to move to a new city had fallen through.

What kind of phrasal verb is “fall through”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“fall through” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

The meeting fell through because the boss was sick.

Example

Our plans to go camping fell through due to the rain.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“fall through” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The meeting fell through because the boss was sick.

Example

Our plans to go camping fell through due to the rain.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall through”?

Fall through the cracks

When something or someone is overlooked, neglected, or forgotten, especially in a system or process.

Example

Many students with learning disabilities fall through the cracks in the education system.

Fall through on a promise

To fail to keep a promise or commitment.

Example

He fell through on his promise to help her move.

Good things to know

Does “fall through” have an informal or formal tone?

Fall through is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or written reports.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “fall through”?

Synonyms

fail
collapse
come to nothing
not succeed
not materialize
not work out
go awry

Antonyms

succeed
materialize
happen
work out
come to fruition
go as planned