[fall] flat
1
(of a joke, remark, event, etc.) to be completely unsuccessful in amusing people or having the desired effect
The origin of the idiom "fall flat" is uncertain, but it is believed to be related to the idea of a joke or comedic performance that fails to elicit the desired response from the audience, causing the energy or mood of the performance to "fall flat." Over time, the phrase has come to be used more generally to describe any situation where something fails to achieve the desired outcome, whether it be a joke, a performance, a product launch, or any other situation where success or impact is expected.
- The comedian's joke fell flat and no one in the audience laughed.
- The new product launch fell flat when it failed to generate much interest or sales.
- The team's attempt at a trick play fell flat and resulted in a turnover.
- Despite his enthusiasm, the sales pitch fell flat with the potential clients.
- The event’s opening act fell flat, failing to energize the crowd for the main performance.
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