Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
the-fly-in-the-ointment
idiom
/ðə flaɪ ɪn ði ˈɔɪntmənt/
Definition
An element that spoils or detracts from an otherwise positive situation.
Examples
- Everything was going smoothly until we discovered the fly in the ointment: the budget was overspent.
- The party was fun, but the unexpected rain was the fly in the ointment.
- Her promotion was great news, but the fly in the ointment was that it required her to relocate.
Meaning
This phrase is used to describe a small problem or issue that can create a larger negative impact in a generally good situation.
Synonyms
- spoiler
- downer
- hardship
- drawback
