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# dropped a clanger

idiom, verb phrase (drop a clanger, dropped a clanger)

«dropped a clanger» in the English dictionary: in the primary school — its meanings, how the lessons use it, and examples, each with its tree on Mova.

## In the primary school

Source: Mova's pupils' dictionary. Licence: [Elamur Cosmic License](https://mova.elamur.ai/free/en/docs/LICENSE/). Reviewed: the dictionary the pupils of Mova's primary school read; its examples quote the lessons and public-domain tales. Ships with Mova.

### Meaning

(UK, informal) made an embarrassing mistake, usually by saying something wrong.

### In the lessons

A British jokey phrase; used in school, office and family talk to make an error sound less serious; UK, Ireland, Australia.

### Examples

- I dropped a clanger by calling the teacher «Mum».
- He dropped a clanger when he mentioned the surprise party.
- The newsreader dropped a clanger and said the wrong name.
- Chat: «Dropped a clanger at work, told the boss he's bald.»
- The goalkeeper dropped a clanger and gifted them a goal.
- Grandad dropped a clanger at the wedding speech.

### Note

A «clanger» is a mistake, not a bell. Means «embarrassing mistake», not a disaster.