FALL ON ONE'S FACE Synonyms: 50 Similar and Opposite Words

fall on one's face

phrase

as in collapse

to be unsuccessful Remembering how she fell on her face giving the speech the first time spurred her to practice it till she had it down.

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Recent Examples of Synonyms for fall on one's face

Phrase

Wilson and Valerie Preston, who co-chairs the planter committee, said the results fell short.

— Josh Bergeron, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026
If either Hecklinski or Brown struggles, Iowa’s 2026 team might look similar to past versions that were competitive but fell short of College Football Playoff contention without an upper-level quarterback.

— Scott Dochterman, New York Times, 24 July 2026

Definition of fall short

Phrase

Early mistakes, poorly attended initial events, or outreach strategies that fall flat may become part of a story about iteration and growth that shapes their personal statement or supplemental essays.

— Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
Without a well-fitting T-shirt or tank, an ensemble can fall flat or look unfinished.

— Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 July 2026

Definition of fall flat

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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falloffs

fall on one's face

fall out

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“Fall on one's face.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fall%20on%20one%27s%20face. Accessed 28 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of fall on one's face

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