throw a wrench in
To introduce a problem, dilemma or obstacle in; to complicate.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The sudden rain threw a wrench in our picnic plans.”
“The unexpected arrival of extra guests threw a wrench in our dinner preparations, so we had to order pizza instead.”
“His sudden resignation just days before the project deadline threw a wrench in the entire operation, forcing the team to work through the weekend to recover.”
See throw a wrench in the works.
- 01
lock someone up and throw away the key
To lock someone up in prison indefinitely.
- 02
monkey wrench
To introduce problems, to create unexpected trouble, to sabotage.
- 03
stone's throw
A short distance, roughly equivalent to how far a person can throw a stone.
- 04
throw a bone to
To provide support or assistance to, especially in one particular way or to a limited extent; to make a concession to.
- 05
throw a fit
To become angry, enraged, or upset; to act or react with an outburst, as by shouting, swearing, etc.
- 06
throw a kiss
To kiss one's hand, then make a gesture as if one was throwing the kiss in a direction towards the recipient.
- 07
throw a monkey wrench in the works
Synonym of throw a spanner in the works.
- 08
throw a monkey wrench into the works
Synonym of throw a spanner into the works.
Last updated August 10, 2026