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Damp Squib

What Does "Damp Squib" Mean?

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"Damp squib" is an English idiom. It means "something that fails to meet expectations or doesn't have the intended effect."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "damp squib" used in a sentence:
  • The party turned out to be a damp squib. Almost nobody showed up.
  • Everyone was excited about the product launch, but it was a damp squib.
  • I thought the movie would be great, but it was a damp squib.
meaning for damp squib

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Damp Squib" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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