The engine died, and that's all she wrote.
that's all she wrote
idiomIndicating an abrupt termination of a project, or of one’s hopes or plans.
Origin
first recorded 20th c. disputed originUnknown; circa 1940s; thought to be a reference to Dear John letters. Ernest Tubb recorded a song titled "That's All She Wrote" (sheet music published in 1942), but earlier printed references exist (e.g. The Brownsville Herald, June 1935).
We ran out of money halfway through the project, so that's all she wrote.
When the final investor withdrew his support, the startup collapsed, and that's all she wrote for their ambitious expansion plans.
- 01
that's about the size of it
That is the situation; that is how it is.
- 02
that's done it
Used to announce a successful solution to a problem.
- 03
that's just me
Indicates the expression of a personal opinion, but often used ironically as an understatement.
- 04
that's saying something
Said of something that has an even greater impact or effect than what is readily apparent, considering the context.
- 05
that's that
There is nothing more to say or to do concerning the matter and is not up for discussion or debate.
- 06
that's that on that
Synonym of that's that; there is nothing more to say or to do concerning the matter and is not up for discussion or debate.
- 07
that's the thing
Used to seize on a point and highlight its comparative importance, especially as a refutation or negation to a statement made by another speaker.
- 08
that's the ticket
That's just right; that's just what is needed.