throw a wrench into the works
Cause unexpected problems
To throw a wrench into the works is to disrupt a plan or process that was running smoothly.
The image is of sabotage—a tool dropped into machinery to jam the gears.
The British version uses spanner: throw a spanner in the works.
The weather threw a wrench into our outdoor wedding plans.
- spoilerPremature ending disclosure
- disruptInterrupt and disorder
- fly in the ointmentSmall flaw spoiling everything
- obstructBlock or hinder passage
- hinderObstruct or delay
sabotage · hamper · scupper · interfere · frustrate · foil · rock the boat · rain on one's parade · impede · curveball · snag · derailment · spanner · put a spanner in the works · gum up the works · undermine · throw off · muddy the waters
throw a wrench into the worksgrease the wheels
Ease a difficult process
facilitate · streamline · pave the way · fix · get the ball rolling
throw a wrench into the workslend a hand
Offer assistance to someone
help out · pitch in · do one's part · come to the rescue · pull one's weight
throw a wrench into the worksgrease the wheels
Ease a difficult process
facilitate · pave the way · streamline · expedite · enable
throws, thrown, throwing, thrower, wrench, wrenches, wrenched, wrenching, workers