# cook someone's goose

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/cook-someones-goose
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To spoil one's plans or hope of success.

## Examples

- He cooked his own goose by arriving late to the interview.
- By insulting the manager during the meeting, she effectively cooked her goose regarding the promotion.
- The discovery of the secret documents cooked his goose, ensuring that his political career would end in disgrace before the next election.

## Origin

Various folk etymologies have been suggested, but the true etymology remains unknown. (folk)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.