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.

Don’t miss, for instance, a food replicator on the fritz, where holographic tea will consistently fail to properly materialize.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2025

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

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

His shirtsleeves are rolled up, which doesn’t solve much: the air-conditioning is on the fritz and the air on the plane is overheated.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood