# drop a brick

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/drop-a-brick
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To commit a faux pas, especially in speech, such as by tactlessly speaking of a subject that should not be mentioned.

## Examples

- I really dropped a brick when I asked about his ex-wife.
- He dropped a brick at dinner by mentioning the company layoffs in front of the boss.
- Realizing she had dropped a brick by questioning the host's controversial political views, she quickly attempted to steer the conversation toward safer topics.

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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.