[bring] {sth} to naught
1
to cause something to fail in achieving any success or fulfilling any expectation
The idiom "bring something to naught" has its origins in Old English and Middle English. The word "naught" means nothing or zero, and the phrase implies the act of reducing or rendering something to a state of worthlessness or failure. It is used to suggest the complete negation or annihilation of an effort or intention, resulting in a lack of accomplishment or success.
- Despite his ambitious plans, unexpected setbacks brought his dreams of entrepreneurship to naught.
- The sudden cancellation of the event brought all the months of preparation to naught.
- The economic crisis brought many promising businesses to naught, leaving entrepreneurs in distress.
- The defensive efforts of the team brought the opponent's aggressive attacks to naught, securing a well-deserved victory.
- The last-minute technical glitch brought the carefully planned product launch to naught.