throws a spanner in the works
Causes unexpected problems
To throw a spanner in the works is to disrupt a plan or process that was running smoothly.
The image is of a metal tool falling into machinery and jamming the gears.
Chiefly British; Americans say throw a wrench in the works.
Everything was going fine until the permit denial threw a spanner in the works.
- meddlingIntrusive interference in others' concerns
- fly in the ointmentSmall flaw spoiling everything
- gum up the worksSabotage smooth operations
- rock the boatDisturb a stable situation
- derailmentLeaving the intended track
throw a wrench · obstruction · hit a snag · delays · bump in the road · repercussions · intervention · complications · tampering · interruption · sabotage · drop a bombshell · setbacks · scupper · malfunction · monkey wrench · breakdown · hindrance
throws a spanner in the worksfacilitates
Makes more possible
paves the way · enables · expedites · assists · streamlines
throws a spanner in the worksplays ball
Goes along willingly
pulls together · cooperates · collaborates · backs up · pitches in
throws a spanner in the worksstreamlines
Makes more efficient
accelerates · clears the way · troubleshoots · keeps the ball rolling
throws, thrown, throwing, thrower, spanner, spanners, spanned, spanning, workers