Cool MateMeaning of Murphy's law
A humorous observation that anything that can go wrong will go wrong.
In simple words: If something can go wrong, it will go wrong.
Murphy's law in a sentence
- Every time I prepare for a trip, Murphy's law seems to apply, and I forget something important.
- Just when you think everything is going smoothly, remember Murphy's law and expect the unexpected.
- Murphy's law hit us hard when the car broke down right before the road trip.
- My laptop crashed while I was finishing my assignment—classic Murphy's law at work!
- Looking at the weather report, I just know that tomorrow will show Murphy's law in action.
How to use Murphy's law
Used in casual conversations to express pessimism or humor about potential failures. It's not suitable for formal writing.
Grammar pattern
standalone idiom
Memory hint
Think of Murphy, who always expected the worst. Imagine a clumsy friend breaking things.
Related words
Collocations with Murphy's law
- apply Murphy's law
- invoking Murphy's law
- Murphy's law states
Synonyms for Murphy's law
- Sod's law
- Law of inevitability
- Principle of misfortune
Common mistakes with Murphy's law
- Used in formal contexts where an idiom is inappropriate.
- Confused with other idioms about failure or bad luck.
- Overused in situations where it doesn't apply.
Murphy's law appears in
Murphy's law in other languages
More idioms like Murphy's law
- Not like that
Used to express that something is done incorrectly or differently than intended.
- That's a start
An acknowledgment that something is a good beginning or initial effort.
- You got that
An informal expression confirming understanding or approval.
- Going back down
To return to a lower location or position.
- Go back to bed
Return to one's bed to sleep or rest.
- We say no
An expression used to indicate refusal or disagreement.
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Frequently asked questions about Murphy's law
What does Murphy's law mean?
If something can go wrong, it will go wrong.
What is the definition of Murphy's law?
A humorous observation that anything that can go wrong will go wrong.
How do you use Murphy's law in a sentence?
Every time I prepare for a trip, Murphy's law seems to apply, and I forget something important.
Can you give another example of Murphy's law?
Just when you think everything is going smoothly, remember Murphy's law and expect the unexpected.
What are synonyms for Murphy's law?
Common alternatives include Sod's law, Law of inevitability, Principle of misfortune.
What words go with Murphy's law?
It commonly pairs with apply Murphy's law, invoking Murphy's law, Murphy's law states.
What are common mistakes when using Murphy's law?
Used in formal contexts where an idiom is inappropriate. Confused with other idioms about failure or bad luck. Overused in situations where it doesn't apply.
How do you pronounce Murphy's law?
US: //ˈmɜrfiːz lɔ//, UK: //ˈmɜːfiːz lɔː//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
Is Murphy's law formal or informal?
"Murphy's law" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.
When should I use Murphy's law?
Used in casual conversations to express pessimism or humor about potential failures. It's not suitable for formal writing.