on the fritz

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But like every machine I've ever owned, it goes on the fritz.

From BBC • Nov. 30, 2023

If your cell phone, for instance, landed on Venus, the thermal energy would set off a flurry of electrons and send your device on the fritz.

From Scientific American • Oct. 23, 2023

When his helmet radio went on the fritz, the Bengals quarterback temporarily had to call the plays.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 22, 2023

My AC was on the fritz recently and just the thought of having to pay for a new one caused terrible anxiety, even though I know that’s what savings is for!

From Slate • Sep. 22, 2023

Then I tried to turn it on, but the remote was still on the fritz.

From "All American Boys" by Jason Reynolds