so much for: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘so much for’ mean?
The idiom "so much for" is used to indicate that something that was expected or planned has failed or ended, often with a sense of disappointment. It suggests that the previous statement or action is now irrelevant or no longer valid.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom meaning an unrealistic or unattainable desire/expectation, often used to convey someone wanting something that is impossible to obtain.
The idiom "the curtain falls" is often used metaphorically to describe the end or conclusion of a situation or event, especially in a dramatic or final manner.
The idiom "that's your lot" means that something has come to an end or there is nothing more to be expected or offered. It can be used to express that there is no more of something or that there is no further opportunity or possibility.
The idiom 'that's that' is used to conclude a discussion or resolve a situation, implying that nothing more needs to be said or done about it. It signifies finality and closure.
The idiom "that's saying something" is used to highlight a statement that is particularly noteworthy or impressive, often because it exceeds expectations or goes against common assumptions.
The idiom "that's done it" is used to indicate that something has reached a critical or irreversible point, often referring to a negative outcome or consequence. It implies that a particular action or event has brought about a significant change that cannot be undone.
The idiom "that's all she wrote" means that something is finished or ended, often with a negative or disappointing outcome. It suggests that there is nothing else to be said or done about a situation.
The idiom "thanks for nothing" is used sarcastically to express dissatisfaction or disappointment with someone's lack of help or contribution to a situation.
Vanishing Promises
The idiom "so much for" is a commonly used phrase in the English language that conveys a sense of disappointment or dismissal after an initial expectation or plan has failed or been proven false. It is typically used to indicate that something or someone has not lived up to expectations or has been proven to be ineffective or insignificant.
Originating in the late 16th century, the phrase "so much for" combines the Middle English word "so" meaning "in such a way" or "to that extent," with the word "much" meaning "a large amount" or "considerably." This combination forms a phrase that dismisses or disregards something as inconsequential or unimportant due to it not meeting expectations.
One possible origin of the phrase can be traced back to the usage of the word "so" as an adverb in Middle English, where it was often used to indicate dismissal or rejection of something. Over time, this usage evolved to include the phrase "so much for" as a way to express disappointment or resignation.
The idiom "so much for" is commonly used in everyday speech and writing, and its meaning is easily understood by native English speakers. It is often used in a conversational or informal context to express a sense of frustration or resignation when something does not go as planned or expected.
One related idiom that is similar in meaning to "so much for" is "come to nothing." This phrase refers to a situation or plan that fails completely or has no successful outcome. When something comes to nothing, it means that all the effort, hopes, or expectations invested in it have been in vain. Just like "so much for," "come to nothing" conveys disappointment and resignation when things don't turn out as expected.
"so far" is another related idiom that can be connected to "so much for" in terms of expressing disappointment or dismissal. When something has progressed "so far," it implies that it has reached a certain point, but it may not have lived up to expectations or may not have achieved the desired outcome. This phrase is often used when there has been a limited or unsatisfactory amount of progress, indicating a sense of disappointment or frustration.
Examples of the idiom "so much for" can be found in various contexts, such as:
"I thought I had everything prepared for the party, but the cake turned out to be a disaster. So much for my baking skills."
"I had high hopes for that new restaurant, but the food was terrible. So much for trying something different."
"I spent hours studying for the test, but I still failed. So much for all that hard work."
"We had big plans for the weekend, but it rained the entire time. So much for our outdoor activities."
The idiom "so much for" serves as a concise and expressive way to convey disappointment or dismissal when something or someone fails to meet expectations. Its usage has become ingrained in the English language and continues to be used in everyday conversations. While its origin may remain uncertain, its meaning and usage remain widely understood and accepted.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *so much for* can be used in a sentence are:
He spent hours baking a cake, but it turned out burnt. So much for his culinary skills!
We planned a picnic, but it started raining as soon as we arrived at the park. So much for our outdoor lunch.
I studied for hours for the exam, but I still failed. So much for all that hard work.
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