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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Describe plans that fall apart, situations that get strange, and problems you could not control.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode compares two directional expressions for when things do not follow the expected plan. “Go south” usually describes a decline or failure, while “go sideways” often suggests that events take a strange or unexpected turn—and can even describe a welcome plot twist.
Cultural note: These are informal metaphors, not literal directions. “Go south” is usually negative; “go sideways” often signals that something went wrong in an unusual way, but storytellers may use it positively for an unexpected turn. The context determines the mood.
Keep exploringTwo plans can fail in different ways: one may simply deteriorate, while another takes an odd turn. These expressions help you show the difference.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a project, relationship, or plan that begins to fail.
Meaning
To get worse, lose value, stop working, or fall apart.
Tone & use
Informal and negative. It can describe a plan, business, relationship, device, or situation that deteriorates.
Example
“The launch went south when the payment system stopped responding.”
Meaning
To fail to happen as planned or expected.
Tone & use
Neutral-to-formal and slightly more polished than “go south.” It works well in reports and explanations.
Example
“The ceremony went awry when the outdoor speakers lost power.”
Meaning
To begin having difficulties while doing something.
Tone & use
A common, neutral expression for unexpected obstacles; it is less colorful than “go south.”
Example
“The renovation ran into trouble when the crew found damage behind the wall.”
Talk about strange changes that take events in a new direction.
Meaning
To develop in an unexpected way, often with problems or strange results.
Tone & use
Informal. It often means things went wrong, but a surprising story or creative project can “go sideways” in an enjoyable way.
Example
“Our picnic went sideways when a curious dog carried off the sandwiches.”
Meaning
A stage after which it is too late or impossible to go back to the previous situation.
Tone & use
Common in serious or dramatic contexts. It can be literal or figurative.
Example
“Once the team sent the final files to print, they had passed the point of no return.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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