thrown a wrench in the works
Caused unexpected problems
To throw a wrench in the works is to disrupt a plan or process that was otherwise proceeding smoothly.
The image is of machinery jamming when a tool falls into its gears.
Everything was on schedule until the permit delay threw a wrench in the works.
The British version is "spanner in the works."
- spanner in the worksDeliberate disruption to plans
- meddlingIntrusive interference in others' concerns
- obstacleSomething blocking the way
- hindranceBarrier to progress
- complicationFactor that adds difficulty
unforeseen circumstances · fallout · troubleshooting · obstruction · impasse · tampering · setback · interruption · repercussions · adaptation · sabotage · upset the apple cart · spanner · workaround · ramifications · derail · best laid plans · bottleneck
thrown a wrench in the workspaved the way
Made future progress possible
facilitated · helped along · expedited · streamlined · enabled
throws, throwing, thrower, wrench, wrenches, wrenched, wrenching, workers, rework