threw a wrench in the works
Caused unexpected problems
To throw a wrench in the works is to disrupt a plan or process that was running smoothly, typically through an unexpected complication: Everything was on schedule until the permit delay threw a wrench in the works.
The image is of sabotaging machinery by jamming it with a tool.
British English uses spanner: throw a spanner in the works.
- meddlingIntrusive interference in others' concerns
- tamperingImproper interference with something
- spanner in the worksDeliberate disruption to plans
- delayEnforced waiting period
- best laid plansThorough preparations that fail
derailment · sabotage · obstruction · upset the apple cart · upheaval · manipulation · intervention · inefficiency · chaos · breakdown · intrusion · ripple effects · frustration · damage control · back to square one · interruption · disturbance · encroachment
threw a wrench in the workssmooth sailing
Untroubled progress forward
paved the way · facilitated · helped along · opened doors · fast-tracked
thrown, throws, throwing, thrower, wrench, wrenches, wrenched, wrenching, workers