The project failed, so heads will roll tomorrow.
heads will roll
idiomSome people will be fired for incompetence.
Origin
disputed originFrom the imagery of a head rolling on the ground when a person is decapitated as punishment for a crime.
After the company lost millions due to the accounting error, the manager warned that heads will roll.
The director made it clear that heads will roll if the department does not improve its performance by the end of the quarter.
- 01
bang some heads together
Attempt to get results from a previously ineffectual or argumentative group, typically by coercion or force.
- 02
butt heads
To argue uncompromisingly.
- 03
call roll
To make a roll call; to take attendance.
- 04
dice roll
Something unpredictable or unexpected.
- 05
heads or tails
The practice of flipping a coin in the air, to choose between two alternatives based on which side lands face up.
- 06
ready to roll
Of a person, machine, vehicle, or plan, fully prepared to begin functioning and operating.
- 07
roll back the years
To produce a sense of nostalgia.
- 08
roll in the aisles
To laugh uproariously.