I dropped the ball and forgot to send the email.
drop the ball
idiomTo fail in one's responsibilities or duties, or to make a mistake, especially at a critical point or when the result is very negative.
Origin
disputed originAn allusion to the rules of such games as baseball, American football or cricket wherein literally dropping the ball would be a mistake.
The project failed because the manager dropped the ball during the final stage of the launch.
Although the team had prepared for months, they ultimately dropped the ball when they failed to secure the necessary permits before the deadline.
- 01
a short drop and a sudden stop
A fall to one's death by hanging.
- 02
ball hog
In team sports, a player who keeps the ball to themselves, rather than passing it.
- 03
ball of fire
A person who is especially active, ambitious, hard-working, or high-achieving.
- 04
ball of malt
A glass of whiskey.
- 05
carry the ball
To lead in terms of responsibility, initiative, or progress.
- 06
don't drop the soap
Used as a mockery to someone who is about to be or should be confined in prison.
- 07
drop a bollock
To make a mistake.
- 08
drop a bomb
Alternative form of drop a bombshell.