Cook somebody’s goose

usgb
phrase

To ruin or ruin someone's plan suddenly.

His constant lateness finally cooked his goose at work when he was fired.
Visual representation of "cook somebody’s goose" - To ruin or ruin someone's plan suddenly.

Often appears as...

  • finally cooked his goose
  • cooked his own goose

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "cook somebody’s goose"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Outcome

Used when someone's actions have led to a disappointing or unfavorable result.

Illustration for Negative Outcome
Ignoring the warnings about his behavior, John cooked his goose with the team.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Final Consequence

Implies that there's no chance of recovery from the situation.

Illustration for Final Consequence
After cheating on the exam, she knew she had cooked her goose.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Self-Inflicted

Often suggests that the person is responsible for the negative situation they're in.

Illustration for Self-Inflicted
By lying to his boss, he cooked his own goose.
Visual representation of the word "Cook somebody’s goose"

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