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to spell trouble
01
to indicate or suggest that a situation or action is likely to lead to problems
What is the origin of the idiom "spell trouble" and when to use it?
The idiom "spell trouble" is used to suggest that a specific event, circumstance, or series of actions will lead to trouble or danger. The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it likely stems from the idea of casting a spell that brings about negative consequences or misfortune.
Example
The creaking floorboards spelled danger for the sneaking cat.
The increasing number of accidents at the construction site spelled danger for the workers.
The dark clouds on the horizon spelled trouble for the picnic.
I fear that the broken fence spells trouble for our pet rabbits.
His sudden silence spelled trouble for the project.
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