threw a wrench in
Caused unexpected problems
To throw a wrench in something is to disrupt or sabotage a plan or process, usually unexpectedly: Her resignation threw a wrench in our expansion plans.
The image is of machinery jammed by a tool falling into the gears.
British English uses spanner: throw a spanner in the works.
- obstructionSomething blocking the way
- derailmentLeaving the intended track
- sabotageDeliberate disruption of operations
- monkey businessDeceitful or frivolous conduct
- hindranceBarrier to progress
fly in the ointment · consequence · ripple effect · interruption · accident · chain reaction · upset the applecart · oversight · mistake · blockage · error · domino effect · complication · disturbance · workaround · back to square one · adjustment · interference
threw a wrench infacilitated
Made something simpler
helped along · paved the way · enabled · expedited · assisted
threw a wrench inironed out
Eliminated problems or disagreements
sorted out · stabilized · fixed · remedied · restored
threw, throw, throws, throwing, thrown, thrower, throwers, wrench, wrenches