queer someone’s pitch: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘queer someone's pitch’ mean?

The idiom "queer someone's pitch" means to ruin or spoil someone's plans or prospects, especially by interfering with their preparations or introducing unexpected difficulties.

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The idiom "cook someone's goose" is another interesting phrase that is related to "queer someone's pitch." This idiom is used to describe an action or event that ruins someone's plans or brings about their downfall. The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century.

One possible explanation for the origin of this idiom is its connection to the sport of hunting. In traditional hunting practices, geese were often prepared as a dish for meals. In order to cook a goose, the bird had to be caught and killed first. If someone's goose was cooked, it meant that their plans or objectives were thwarted or ruined, much like the act of cooking a goose.

The idiom "pitch woo" is another phrase related to "queer someone's pitch." This idiom is used to describe the act of expressing romantic or affectionate interest in someone. The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century.

The queer artist pitched their innovative art project.

One possible explanation for the origin of this idiom is its connection to the act of serenading. In the past, it was common for individuals to serenade their romantic interests by singing or playing music under their window. This act was known as "pitching woo" or "making the pitch." The idiom may have subsequently evolved to encompass a broader range of romantic gestures and expressions.

The idiom "throw a wrench in" is also related to "queer someone's pitch." This idiom is used to describe an action or event that disrupts or hinders a process or plan. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States.

One possible explanation for the origin of this idiom is its connection to mechanics and machinery. In mechanical work, a wrench is a tool used to tighten or loosen bolts and nuts. If a wrench is thrown into the machinery, it can cause it to malfunction or break down. Similarly, when someone throws a wrench into a plan or process, it disrupts the flow and may lead to negative consequences.

"queer someone's pitch" is an interesting idiom that refers to the act of spoiling or ruining someone's plans or efforts. The exact origin and meaning of this phrase may remain somewhat elusive, but it is commonly understood to involve deliberate interference or sabotage. The related idioms "cook someone's goose," "pitch woo," and "throw a wrench in" all have a similar theme of disrupting or undermining someone's plans or endeavors. These idioms contribute to the rich tapestry of language and serve as a reminder of the complexities and nuances of idiomatic expressions.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "queer someone's pitch" can be used in a sentence:

  1. His sudden interruption during the presentation really queered her pitch.
  2. The competitor spread false rumors about our company to queer our pitch in the market.
  3. She tried to queer his pitch by revealing his secret plans to their boss.

The idiom "queer someone's pitch" is used to describe actions or statements that spoil or ruin someone's plans or efforts, often intentionally. It can refer to situations where someone intentionally interrupts or sabotages another person's speech, presentation, or project. It can also be used metaphorically to describe actions aimed at damaging someone's reputation or disrupting their progress in a specific area, such as the market or workplace. The idiom can carry a negative connotation as it implies interference with someone's plans or objectives.

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