all went wrong

USAGE SUMMARY

"all went wrong" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation or event that did not go as planned or expected. Here is an example: "After months of preparation, the company's big product launch all went wrong when the main speaker's microphone malfunctioned and the presentation slides wouldn't load."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And then it all went wrong.

Independent

That was when it all went wrong.

The New York Times

The night it all went wrong.

The New Yorker

That's where it all went wrong.

The Guardian - Sport

But then it all went wrong.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is how it all went wrong.

The Guardian - Opinion

In 2008, it all went wrong.

The Guardian

Yes, and this is where it all went wrong.

Independent

Ball has not forgotten how it all went wrong.

The New York Times - Sports

But in Uganda in 2005, it all went wrong.

The Guardian

LIZADONNELLY: Sean JUDITH Daddyy, actually AMY DAVIDSON: Maybe that was where it all went wrong.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "all went wrong" to describe a specific moment or period when a plan or situation began to fail. Ensure the context clearly indicates what the intended outcome was and how it deviated.

Common error

Avoid using "all went wrong" as a general statement of negativity without specifying what exactly failed and why. Provide context to make the phrase meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "all went wrong" functions as a clause element typically serving as the predicate of a sentence. It describes a situation where a plan or event failed, often unexpectedly. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "all went wrong" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe situations that have taken an unexpected turn for the worse. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase follows standard grammar rules. Its usage is very common, particularly in news and media contexts. While it can fit various contexts, it is important to use it with specific details about what failed to avoid vagueness. Related phrases include "everything fell apart" and "things took a turn for the worse", which can be used as alternatives depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it all went awry

Similar to 'went wrong', but perhaps implying a more unexpected or bizarre turn of events.

everything fell apart

This alternative emphasizes a complete disintegration or failure of a situation.

things took a turn for the worse

This phrase highlights a negative change in circumstances.

the plan backfired

This suggests a scheme or strategy that produced an unwanted result.

the situation deteriorated

This indicates a gradual decline in the state of affairs.

it all unraveled

This suggests a process of something coming undone or falling apart.

it went south

A colloquial expression indicating a decline or failure.

the project failed

This directly states the lack of success of a particular project.

disaster struck

Emphasizes a sudden and calamitous event.

the endeavor collapsed

This alternative suggests a complete and sudden failure of an undertaking.

FAQs

How can I use "all went wrong" in a sentence?

You can use "all went wrong" to describe a situation that has taken an unexpected turn for the worse. For example, "The negotiation started well, but it "all went wrong" when they disagreed on the payment terms."

What are some alternatives to saying "all went wrong"?

Alternatives include phrases like "everything fell apart", "things took a turn for the worse", or "the plan backfired", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "all went wrong" or "everything went wrong"?

Both "all went wrong" and "everything went wrong" are grammatically correct and can often be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on stylistic preference and the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "all went wrong" and "something went wrong"?

"All went wrong" suggests a comprehensive failure, affecting many aspects of a situation. "Something went wrong" implies a more isolated problem or setback. The former is a larger, more encompassing issue.