close but no cigar






close but no cigar

(of an attempt) almost but not quite successful - North American informal

This phrase possibly originated as a consoling comment to or about a man who put up a good, but not winning, performance in a competition or contest of strength in which the prize was a cigar.

1995 - Nick Hornby - High Fidelity - But, you know... you did not represent my last and best chance of a relationship. So, you know, nice try. Close, but no cigar.




close but no cigar :






close but no cigar To HOME PAGE


Idioms Index – Previous Page




Related Links : close but no cigar