Come a cropper

Definitions

• to experience failure or misfortune
  Implying that someone will have a negative outcome or result in a particular situation or action

• to fall or stumble
  Suggesting that someone will physically fall or stumble in a clumsy or uncoordinated manner

• to suffer a sudden or unexpected setback
  Indicating that someone will encounter an unexpected problem or obstacle that will hinder their progress or success

Examples of Come a cropper

Conclusion

The idiom "come a cropper" is used to convey the idea of experiencing failure or misfortune in a particular situation or action. It can also suggest physical clumsiness or stumbling, as well as encountering unexpected setbacks or obstacles.

This idiom is often used in a casual or colloquial context, and can be used to warn or advise someone against engaging in a particular action or task. It can also be used to describe a past event or situation in which the speaker or someone else suffered a negative outcome.

Origin of "Come a cropper"

The origin of the idiom "come a cropper" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the 19th century in England. The word "cropper" is thought to come from the word "crop," which refers to a harvest or yield of crops. It is possible that the idiom was initially used in agricultural contexts, referring to a farmer or worker who experienced a poor harvest or crop yield.

Another theory suggests that the idiom may have originated from the sport of horse racing. In this context, "coming a cropper" could refer to a rider falling or being thrown off a horse during a race.

Regardless of its exact origin, the idiom has been in use for over a century and has evolved to encompass a range of meanings related to failure or misfortune. It is now a common phrase in everyday English and is often used in a casual or humorous manner.