When and why do we say mettre des bâtons dans les roues?

What does mettre des bâtons dans les roues mean?

This metaphor literally translates as: to put sticks in the wheels. 

It actually means that something unexpected has happened, causing a plan to become more complicated or be completely disrupted. It is often used to refer to an obstacle, delay or cancellation.

It is similar to the English expressions: to throw a spanner in the works, or to throw a wrench in the gears.

What are the origins of mettre des bâtons dans les roues?

It is thought that this expression can be traced back to the 14th Century. 

In this phrase, the wheel represents movement and making progress towards an end goal. The stick represents an obstacle or barrier that prevents the wheel from turning – often abruptly – therefore blocking any further progression.

When do you say mettre des bâtons dans les roues?

Say this when things are not going to plan:

• Je devais partir en vacances demain, mais mon collègue a caché mon passeport pour me mettre des bâtons dans les roues. - I was supposed to be going on holiday tomorrow but my coworker hid my passport to throw a wrench in my plans.

You can also use it when something stops you from completing a task:

• Statement: Elle a vraiment envie de faire des brownies, mais son frère a utilisé tout le chocolat exprès pour lui mettre des bâtons dans les roues. - She really wants to make brownies but her brother used all the chocolate on purpose to throw a wrench in her plans.

To whom do you say mettre des bâtons dans les roues?

It is a colloquial expression that you can say in formal and informal contexts - use it with friends, family, colleagues or strangers. 

For a more neutral alternative, try using the verb empêcher, which means to prevent, or put a stop to something:

• Cette situation m'a empêché d'atteindre mon objectif. - This situation prevented me from achieving my goal.

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