Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Pear-shaped (Idiom)

Quick summary: A common UK idiom meaning that a situation or plan has gone wrong or failed.

What does it mean?

When a situation goes pear-shaped, it means it has gone wrong or failed, often in a messy or unexpected way.

Is it positive or negative?

It is negative, describing a failure or problem.

When do you use it?

Use it in everyday conversation when the situation matches the meaning.

Examples

Example 1: The project was going perfectly until the lead designer quit; then everything went pear-shaped.

Example 2: We tried to organize a surprise party, but it all went pear-shaped when he walked in early.

Question for you

Have you heard or used 'pear shaped' in real conversation?

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