complete flop

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete flop" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that has failed completely or did not meet expectations, such as a project, event, or product. Example: "The movie was a complete flop at the box office, failing to attract any audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Colin Powell's recent trip there was a complete flop".

The New York Times

Cameo, released in 1973, was a complete flop.

The Guardian - Music

That relationship has not been a complete flop.

The New York Times

"Yeah, and it's a complete flop?" Matty Healy replies eagerly.

Independent

It was a complete flop, but I still love it.

The New York Times

But commercially the Bella Coola show was a complete flop".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

About 80% of all films made here are complete flops.

The Guardian - Film

"From a personal point of view, I took a bit of a bashing during that World Cup and as a team we were complete flops.

The Guardian - Sport

Then it's the turn of Gerrard, Rooney and Co to show they're not complete flops as they take on Costa Rica on Tuesday in their final Group D match.

Independent

According to Mr Showbiz, Ryder, whose last two films, Lost Souls and Autumn in New York, were complete flops, is apparently negotiating to join Sandler, who has already signed up for Deeds, a remake of the Gary Cooper/Jean Arthur film, Mr Deeds Goes to Town.

The Guardian - Film

"Oops, it's just @JLo making her 20-year-old pop contemporaries look like complete flops live again".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complete flop", ensure the context clearly indicates what failed and why. Be specific about the area where the failure occurred to provide a clearer understanding for the reader.

Common error

While "complete flop" is acceptable, avoid using it repeatedly in the same piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "utter disaster" or "total failure" to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete flop" functions as a noun phrase that acts as a predicate nominative or object complement. It describes something as an utter failure. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complete flop" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that has utterly failed. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to strongly disapprove or express disappointment. While acceptable, diversifying vocabulary with synonyms like "utter disaster" or "total failure" can enhance writing. Understanding the context of the failure ensures effective communication. Overall, it's a readily understood phrase for conveying a significant lack of success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

total failure

Emphasizes the utter lack of success, similar to a complete flop.

utter disaster

Highlights the catastrophic nature of the failure.

resounding failure

Implies the failure was widely recognized and significant.

abject failure

Stresses the miserable and hopeless nature of the failure.

dismal failure

Focuses on the depressing and inadequate result.

spectacular failure

Indicates the failure was particularly noticeable or dramatic.

miserable failure

Highlights the unhappiness and disappointment caused by the failure.

botched attempt

Suggests the failure resulted from poor execution or planning.

failed miserably

Expresses that something didn't work in a poor way.

went down like a lead balloon

Idiomatic expression for something being poorly received or failing.

FAQs

How can I use "complete flop" in a sentence?

You can use "complete flop" to describe something that has utterly failed. For example, "The new product launch was a "complete flop", with minimal sales and negative reviews."

What are some alternatives to "complete flop"?

Alternatives include "utter failure", "total disaster", or "resounding defeat". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "complete flop" in formal or informal contexts?

While "complete flop" is understandable in most contexts, it leans toward the informal. For formal writing, consider using more professional alternatives like "significant setback" or "unmitigated failure".

What makes something qualify as a "complete flop" instead of just a minor failure?

A "complete flop" suggests a comprehensive and undeniable failure, often involving significant losses or unmet expectations. It goes beyond a minor setback to represent a substantial and often irreversible failure.