How Do You Spell CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR?

Pronunciation: [klˈə͡ʊs bˌʌt nˈə͡ʊ sɪɡˈɑː] (IPA)

The phrase "close but no cigar" is a popular idiom used to describe a situation where one has made a near miss. The word "close" is pronounced as /kləʊs/ with a long O vowel sound, while "cigar" is pronounced as /sɪˈɡɑː(r)/ with a silent R at the end. The spelling of the word "cigar" may seem unusual, but it is derived from the Spanish word "cigarro". The phrase is believed to have originated in carnivals where cigars were often given as prizes for winning games, and those who came close but did not win were told "close but no cigar".

CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "close but no cigar" is an idiomatic expression that is often used informally to convey the idea that someone was almost successful or correct in achieving something, but ultimately fell short. It is a lighthearted way of acknowledging someone's effort or attempt while simultaneously asserting that they did not quite achieve the desired outcome.

   Originating from fairgrounds or carnivals of the early 20th century, the phrase alludes to the practice of giving out cigars as prizes for winning certain games or competitions. Participants who came close but did not win were said to be "close but no cigar." The phrase has since become a widely recognized and understood expression, often used in modern contexts outside of its original carnival setting.

   Today, "close but no cigar" is commonly employed in various situations, ranging from everyday conversations to sports commentaries or business settings. It can be used to express almost achieving a goal, solving a puzzle, making an accurate guess, or even implementing a successful plan. By using this idiom, individuals can acknowledge the effort and motivation of others, while also acknowledging the need for improvement or a little bit more to reach the intended objective.

Common Misspellings for CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR

• xlose but no cigar
• vlose but no cigar
• flose but no cigar
• dlose but no cigar
• ckose but no cigar
• cpose but no cigar
• coose but no cigar
• clise but no cigar
• clkse but no cigar
• cllse but no cigar
• clpse but no cigar
• cl0se but no cigar
• cl9se but no cigar
• cloae but no cigar
• cloze but no cigar
• cloxe but no cigar
• clode but no cigar
• cloee but no cigar
• clowe but no cigar