as in blunder
somewhat informal
a problem that makes a situation difficult or confusing
A major scheduling snafu led to two meetings starting at the same time.
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Recent Examples of snafu
But the company ultimately failed to crank out a sufficient number of batteries before running out of cash, due in part to a reliance on Chinese technology that led to technical snafus and internal culture clashes.
—
Tim McDonnell, semafor.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Earlier today, both the platform and star Carrie Coon poked fun at the snafu online.
—Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 4 Aug. 2025
While the public has been welcome to visit Highgrove Gardens for 30 years, speculation of a staffing snafu among the Highgrove gardening team has recently made waves.
—Janine Henni, People.com, 31 July 2025
Fans of a popular energy drink may unknowingly be cracking open a can of alcohol, thanks to a supply-chain snafu.
—Rachel Treisman, NPR, 31 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for snafu
Tim McDonnell, semafor.com, 12 Aug. 2025
Earlier today, both the platform and star Carrie Coon poked fun at the snafu online.
—Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 4 Aug. 2025
While the public has been welcome to visit Highgrove Gardens for 30 years, speculation of a staffing snafu among the Highgrove gardening team has recently made waves.
—Janine Henni, People.com, 31 July 2025
Fans of a popular energy drink may unknowingly be cracking open a can of alcohol, thanks to a supply-chain snafu.
—Rachel Treisman, NPR, 31 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for snafu
Recent Examples of Synonyms for snafu
Noun
-
When the event is abruptly cancelled due to a booking blunder, the four seize the chance to brainstorm a sequel, retreating to the film’s original locations for inspiration.—
Andreas Wiseman,
Deadline,
29 Aug. 2025
-
Some staff reportedly asked whether the messages were a mistake, underscoring the confusion and distress caused by the blunder.—
Christer Holloman,
Forbes.com,
28 Aug. 2025
Noun
-
Having the confidence to make tough decisions, to trust your team, to learn from your mistakes, and to keep moving forward.—
WWD Staff,
Footwear News,
8 Sep. 2025
-
That, in my opinion, is a mistake.—
Arthur Azizov,
Forbes.com,
8 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
Due to an editing error, a prior version of this report misstated what match Djokovic is playing Friday.—
Shelby Talcott,
semafor.com,
5 Sep. 2025
-
Sabalenka ended the match with 43 winners compared to 27 errors; Pegula was 21 for 15.—
Charlie Eccleshare,
New York Times,
5 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Snafu.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/snafu. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.
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