Quick answer: “Up in smoke” means used to describe plans, hopes, money, or effort that are completely wasted or destroyed, coming to nothing.
Up in smoke — Used to describe plans, hopes, money, or effort that are completely wasted or destroyed, coming to nothing.
Origin & History
The image behind this idiom is fairly direct: something literally burning up and disappearing as smoke into the air, leaving nothing solid behind.
This image of sudden, total destruction was extended figuratively to describe hopes, plans, or investments that are just as suddenly and completely destroyed, a usage that has been common in English since at least the 19th century.
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| All his savings went up in smoke when the investment failed. | Finance, investment |
| Their holiday plans went up in smoke after the airline cancelled the flight. | Travel plans |
| Years of hard work went up in smoke when the factory burned down. | Business, disaster |
| Her dream of opening a bakery went up in smoke during the recession. | Personal ambition |
| The merger went up in smoke after the last-minute disagreement. | Business, negotiation |
How to Use It
This idiom is generally used to describe the situation directly, often following a form of the verb "to be" or paired with a verb of change such as "go" or "get." It works well in both spoken and written English, and is most effective when it clearly refers to a real, specific situation rather than being used vaguely.
Common Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
His savings went up on smoke.
His savings went up in smoke. — the preposition is 'in', not 'on'.
Their plans went up in smokes.
Their plans went up in smoke. — 'smoke' is uncountable — there is no plural.
The deal went up into smoke.
The deal went up in smoke. — the preposition is 'in', not 'into'.
Similar Idioms
Practise This Idiom
Practice English Idioms
Use these exercises to master idioms in context:
Want to understand the grammar behind this? Explore our Grammar guides.
Quick Check: Up in smoke
2 questions — test what you just learned.
1. What does “Up in smoke” mean?
2. Complete the sentence: “All his savings went _____ when the investment failed.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Up in smoke” mean?
“Up in smoke” means Used to describe plans, hopes, money, or effort that are completely wasted or destroyed, coming to nothing.
Where does the idiom “Up in smoke” come from?
The image behind this idiom is fairly direct: something literally burning up and disappearing as smoke into the air, leaving nothing solid behind.
Can you give an example of “Up in smoke” in a sentence?
Here is an example: “All his savings went up in smoke when the investment failed.” — used in the context of finance, investment.
Is “Up in smoke” formal or informal?
This idiom is neutral. It is common in everyday speech, journalism, and semi-formal writing, though it is generally avoided in strict formal or academic writing.
What CEFR level is “Up in smoke”?
This idiom is typically taught at B2 level. It is a common upper-intermediate expression that appears in conversation, journalism, and general writing, and learners at this level should understand and be able to use it actively.
What are common mistakes with “Up in smoke”?
A common mistake is: His savings went up on smoke. The correct form is: His savings went up in smoke. (the preposition is 'in', not 'on')
What idioms are similar to “Up in smoke”?
Similar idioms include: Come to nothing, Go down the drain, Fall through, All for nothing. These share a related meaning or usage context.
How do I practise idioms like “Up in smoke”?
Use LexFizz's Flash Cards and Flip Tiles exercises. Try writing your own example sentences using the idiom in context, and listen for it in films, podcasts, and everyday conversation.
Can “Up in smoke” be used in writing?
Yes. It works well in informal writing, emails, and journalism. In everyday and semi-formal writing it is a natural and clear choice.
Does “Up in smoke” have the same meaning in British and American English?
Yes, “Up in smoke” is understood in both British and American English with the same meaning: Used to describe plans, hopes, money, or effort that are completely wasted or destroyed, coming to nothing. The idiom is widely recognised across all major varieties of English.