VOCABULARY - IDIOMS

Gum up the works

Meaning:

The phrase gum up the works means to prevent a process, a system or a machine from working smoothly.

Examples:

  • The malfunctioning printer gummed up the works, causing delays in completing the project.
  • Adding unnecessary paperwork only served to gum up the works of the otherwise efficient system.
  • The outdated software continued to gum up the works, making it difficult for employees to perform their tasks efficiently.
  • Introducing too many new rules and regulations can gum up the works of a well-established organization.
  • The construction project faced setbacks when unexpected weather conditions gummed up the works.
  • Trying to micromanage every aspect of the team's workflow only serves to gum up the works and decrease productivity.
  • Lack of communication between departments can gum up the works and lead to misunderstandings and errors.
  • The factory had to shut down temporarily when a broken machine gummed up the works and halted production.
  • The excessive bureaucracy in the government agency gums up the works, making it difficult to get anything done.
  • Ignoring routine maintenance can eventually gum up the works of even the most advanced machinery.