# upset the applecart

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/upset-the-applecart
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To disorganize or spoil something, especially an established arrangement or plan.

## Examples

- Please do not upset the applecart with your new rules.
- The team had a perfect plan, but his sudden decision to quit really upset the applecart.
- By introducing radical changes to the long-standing company policy, the new manager inadvertently upset the applecart and caused significant confusion among the staff.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.