He tried to learn to skate but fell on his face.
fall on one's face
idiomTo fail, especially in a dramatic or particularly decisive manner.
The company launched a new product, but it fell on its face because nobody wanted to buy it.
Despite his elaborate preparations and years of experience, the politician fell on his face during the final debate.
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
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ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
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act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
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act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
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afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
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air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
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air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
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albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated July 12, 2026