"bring something to naught"的定义和意义

What is the origin of the idiom "bring something to naught" and when to use it?

The idiom "bring something to naught" has its origins in Old English and Middle English. The word "naught" means nothing or zero, and the phrase implies the act of reducing or rendering something to a state of worthlessness or failure. It is used to suggest the complete negation or annihilation of an effort or intention, resulting in a lack of accomplishment or success.