English Explanatory Dictionary

close, but no cigar

English dictionary entry

Meanings

phrase
  1. Used to indicate that one is almost correct or has almost succeeded, but not quite.

Pronunciation

/ˈkləʊs bʌt nəʊ sɪˈɡɑː/ /ˈkloʊs bʌt noʊ sɪˈɡɑɹ/ En-au-close, but no cigar.ogg

Word forms

close, but no cigar close but no cigar

Etymology

From the practice of giving cigars as prizes at carnivals in the United States in the 20th century; those who did not win would fail to receive a cigar, even if they came close.

Synonyms

almost doesn't count a miss is as good as a mile
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