throw a wrench in the works
Cause unexpected problems
To throw a wrench in the works is to cause disruption or sabotage something that was proceeding smoothly.
The image is of a tool falling into machinery and jamming the gears.
Everything was on schedule until the permit denial threw a wrench in the works.
The British variant is throw a spanner in the works, spanner being the British term for wrench.
- disruptInterrupt and disorder
- scupperDrain on ship's deck
- upset the applecartDisrupt established order
- hinderObstruct or delay
- sabotageDeliberate disruption of operations
gum up the works · obstruct · foil · hamper · impede · derail · rain on someone's parade · unforeseen · best laid plans · undermine · interfere · fly in the ointment · stall · thwart · breakdown · collateral damage · misstep · intentional
throw a wrench in the worksgrease the wheels
Ease a difficult process
pave the way · facilitate · help along · enable · expedite
throw a wrench in the workssmooth sailing
Untroubled progress forward
plain sailing · fall into place · work like a charm · click into gear · come together
throws, thrown, throwing, thrower, wrench, wrenches, wrenched, wrenching, workers