T-learning # Idiom
Speak Like a Native

to go pear-shaped

Choose the correct definition a, b or c.

a) to hit rock bottom

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.

b) to go wrong

Well done ! That’s the right answer.

If a situation goes ‘pear-shaped’, bad things start happening

French translation

tourner mal, partir en vrille, partir en sucette, tourner en eau de boudin

How NOT to translate : *partir en forme de poire

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Examples in context

‘Apple’s progress towards a $1,000 share price may yet go pear-shaped

New iPhones and iPads have everyone excited about Apple’s prospects, but pushing into China and into the TV market won’t be problem-free.’

The Observer, 8 April 2013

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’HLPC talks go pear-shaped again’

A High-level Political Committee (HLPC) meeting on Sunday ended without making any headway, as the four major political forces stuck to their guns. The provision of threshold and eligibility of candidates running in the new Constituent Assembly elections were the sticking points.

Katmandu, 10 June 2013

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Everyday usage

I didn’t ask him for help on the project because last time, things went a bit pear-shaped.

If we don’t resolve this problem now, the situation will go pear-shaped !

c) to run smoothly

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.


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