# fizzle out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fizzle-out
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to slowly end or fail instead of finishing in a strong or clear way.

For teachers: to gradually decrease in intensity, strength, or effectiveness until a complete cessation occurs; often used for processes, relationships, or protests.

## Examples

- Their romance started well but soon began to fizzle out.
- The protest started with hundreds of people, but it fizzled out when the rain began.
- Initial enthusiasm for the new policy fizzled out as the staff realized how much extra paperwork it would actually require.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The party fizzled out it." but "The party fizzled out." — this phrasal verb is intransitive, meaning it does not take a direct object.

## Usage notes

- usually used for things that start with a lot of energy but lose it over time.
- Teaching tip: the word 'fizzle' mimics the sound of a dying fire or a drink losing its bubbles, which helps students remember the idea of losing energy.

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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.