- To fail to produce the intended or desired effect; to fail to be funny, interesting, or persuasive.
Explanation
Origin
- Likely evokes the image of something dropping and landing flat, without bounce or impact, perhaps like a poorly thrown object or a deflated ball.
- It suggests a lack of resonance or positive reception.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Bombed hard
- Tanked (in the sense of failing to perform)
- Didn't connect
- Was a dud
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Was a fucking disaster (more general failure)
- Nobody gave a shit (implies indifference)
Milder:
- Wasn't well-received
- Didn't resonate
- Failed to achieve its purpose
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal.
- Suitable for discussing the reception of ideas, performances, jokes, campaigns, etc., in most settings, including work.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might initially think of a literal fall. Context is key (jokes, presentations, attempts).
Examples
- His jokes completely fell flat; nobody laughed.
- The marketing campaign fell flat and didn't increase sales.
- Her attempt to apologize fell flat because it sounded insincere.
Dialogue
Chloe: How did your presentation go?
Mark: Not great. My main argument seemed to fall flat with the board.
Chloe: Oh no. Did they say why?
Mark: They felt the data wasn't strong enough to support it.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Tried a new joke in my stand-up set tonight... totally fell flat. 😬 Audience stared blankly. #comedy #fail #awkward
- Blog Comment: I thought the author's attempt at social commentary in the last chapter fell flat. Seemed forced. #bookreview
- Facebook Status: My brilliant idea for a team-building exercise fell flat. Maybe laser tag wasn't the best choice for accountants... #worklife #oops
Response Patterns
- Oh dear, that's awkward.
- Yeah, I noticed.
- Why do you think it fell flat?
- That's a shame.
- Better luck next time.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing something fell flat:
- Ask Why do you think it happened?
- Discuss what could have been done differently.
- Offer sympathy or constructive criticism.
Conversation Starter
- No. Used to describe the outcome of an attempt or performance.
Intonation
- Stress typically on fall and flat.
- Often said with a slightly disappointed or critical tone. Fell FLAT.
Generation Differences
- Common across most age groups.
Regional Variations
- Widely used and understood in all major English-speaking regions.