# devil lies in the details

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/devil-lies-in-the-details
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Synonym of devil is in the details.

## Examples

- The plan looks good, but the devil lies in the details.
- We agreed on the main goals, but we need to review the contract because the devil lies in the details.
- While the project proposal seemed flawless at first glance, the team soon discovered that the devil lies in the details when they began the actual implementation phase.

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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.