like a sack of spuds

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a sack of spuds" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something that is heavy, unresponsive, or difficult to move, often in a humorous or informal context. Example: "When he fell asleep on the couch, he was sprawled out like a sack of spuds."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He goes down like a sack of spuds, and is booked for his trouble.

The Guardian - Sport

The theme is a familiar one – last season Wolverhampton Wanderers' midfield enforcer Karl Henry accused the Gunners' players of "going down like a sack of spuds".

Independent

They forget all the good we do – all the charitable work – but the moment that something comes up, you jump on us like a sack of spuds.

Independent

That would be a soccer 'trip', the kind where the 'trippee' goes down like a sack of spuds despite not remotely having been touched by the 'tripper'tripper

The Guardian - Sport

It was something and nothing, but he went to ground like a sack of spuds, as he has done repeatedly throughout this match.

The Guardian - Sport

In effect, Wenger was confirming what Henry of Wolves and a host of others in the English game already believe, that Arsenal players "go down like a sack of spuds".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

One Twitter user compared it to a "sack of spuds tied in the middle," another said that it had the look of a "fire retardant bin liner" and frequent references were made to similarities with jumpsuits worn by mechanics.

Independent

Instead it dropped like a sack of fat spuds.

The Guardian - Sport

The tattoo on Sally Conway's arm says "believe", a reminder never to lose faith in her ability to chuck another woman over her shoulder like an unwanted sack of spuds or pin her down on the floor for long enough to win a judo match.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's like a sack of potatoes".

The New Yorker

It was cold and felt like a sack of rocks.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a sack of spuds" to add a humorous or slightly critical tone when describing someone falling or collapsing heavily, especially in sports commentary or informal conversations. Be mindful of your audience, as the phrase may not be universally understood.

Common error

Avoid using "like a sack of spuds" literally. This phrase is a simile and should only be used to describe a heavy, ungainly fall or collapse, not to describe the actual physical properties of a sack of potatoes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a sack of spuds" functions as a simile, comparing someone or something's fall or state of being to the heavy, ungainly manner of a falling sack of potatoes. Ludwig confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

30%

General

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The simile "like a sack of spuds" is a colorful and informal way to describe a heavy, uncontrolled fall or collapse. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and most often found in news, media, and sports contexts, serving to add a touch of humor or criticism. While it's a useful expression for casual conversation, remember that formality is important, because more suitable options may exist depending on the audience. Consider alternatives like "like a ton of bricks" or "like a dead weight" if a different tone is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

like a dead weight

This phrase highlights the burden or difficulty of moving something, emphasizing the lack of assistance.

like a log

Similar to "sack of spuds", this refers to something heavy and difficult to move.

like a ton of bricks

This alternative emphasizes the heaviness and abruptness of the fall.

like a stone

This emphasizes the unresponsiveness and inert nature of the fall.

like a lead balloon

This phrase suggests a complete and utter failure or lack of enthusiasm, similar to a heavy fall.

like ninepins

Describes something falling over due to an external force, similar to a heavy fall.

like a wet blanket

This alternative describes someone or something that dampens enthusiasm or excitement, similar to lacking responsiveness.

flat on your face

Describes a fall resulting in being face down, implying clumsiness or failure.

gone for a Burton

British slang for something that is ruined, lost or has ceased to exist, somewhat similar to a heavy fall.

hit the deck

Action of lying down quickly to avoid danger. Although doesn't refer to 'like a sack of spuds', it does refer to falling.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone falls "like a sack of spuds"?

It means they fell heavily and without control, similar to how a heavy bag of potatoes would drop.

What can I say instead of "like a sack of spuds"?

You can use alternatives like "like a ton of bricks", "like a dead weight", or "like a log" depending on the context.

Is "like a sack of spuds" a formal expression?

No, it's an informal simile. Use it in casual conversations or less formal writing. Avoid it in academic or business contexts.

Is it appropriate to use "like a sack of spuds" in all situations?

No, it's generally used for humorous or slightly critical effect. Avoid using it when describing serious injuries or in situations where levity is inappropriate.