fall through: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘fall through’ mean?

The idiom fall through means for something, such as a plan or an agreement, to fail or not happen as expected.

Idiom Explorer

Plans gone wrong

The idioms "fall through the cracks" and "fall between the cracks" are closely related to the expression "fall through." These idioms are used to describe situations where something is overlooked, forgotten, or not given proper attention or consideration. When something falls through the cracks or falls between the cracks, it means that it has been missed or neglected, often resulting in negative consequences.

These idioms can be applied to various scenarios, such as a missed opportunity, an overlooked detail, or a failure to address an important issue. For example, in a busy work environment, it's easy for tasks or requests to fall through the cracks if they are not properly documented or prioritized. Similarly, in a bureaucratic system, individuals or groups may feel like they are falling between the cracks if their concerns or needs are not addressed.

The idiom "go through with" is also related to the concept of "fall through." It is used to describe the act of following through with a plan, decision, or commitment, despite challenges or obstacles. When someone goes through with something, they are determined to see it through to the end, even if there are doubts or difficulties along the way.

This idiom can be applied to various situations, such as a person going through with a difficult task or a couple going through with their decision to get married despite facing opposition. It conveys a sense of determination and perseverance, highlighting the importance of commitment and follow-through.

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When it comes to the idiom "fall through the cracks," it is often used to highlight the consequences of neglect or oversight. When something falls through the cracks, it means that it has been missed or ignored, and as a result, it can have negative implications or outcomes. For example, if a student's poor performance in school falls through the cracks, it means that the necessary interventions or support were not provided, which can hinder their academic progress.

Similarly, in a business context, if a customer complaint falls through the cracks, it means that it was not properly addressed or resolved, which can damage the company's reputation. This idiom emphasizes the importance of attention to detail and thoroughness in order to avoid potential problems or issues.

The idiom "fall between the cracks" is closely related to "fall through the cracks," but it emphasizes the feeling of being overlooked or ignored. When something falls between the cracks, it means that it has not received the attention or consideration it deserves. This can happen in various situations, such as when a person's talents or achievements are not recognized, or when a particular group or community is marginalized or neglected.

This idiom highlights the need for inclusivity and fairness, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that everyone is given equal opportunities and recognition. It serves as a reminder to pay attention to the details and to be mindful of the potential consequences of overlooking or neglecting certain individuals or groups.

Overall, the idioms "fall through the cracks," "fall between the cracks," and "go through with" are all closely related to the concept of "fall through." They each convey different aspects of the consequences or actions associated with plans, agreements, or arrangements. These idioms serve to remind us of the importance of attention to detail, commitment, and inclusivity to avoid potential problems and ensure success.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "fall through" can be used in a sentence:

  1. The company had hoped to close the deal, but it fell through at the last minute.
  2. We made plans for a beach trip, but they fell through due to bad weather.
  3. John was counting on his scholarship, but it fell through when he didn't meet the academic requirements.

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