IdiomDaily Life
English
Englisha damp squib
Meaning: Something expected to be impressive that turns out a disappointment.
Example: “The long-awaited announcement was a damp squib.”
Origin: A squib is a small firework; if it is damp, it fizzles instead of exploding. The British phrase is found from the 19th century.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Un pétard mouillé Literally: A damp firecracker
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