Understanding “Close But No Cigar”
The phrase “close but no cigar” is a colorful idiom used to describe a situation where someone comes very near to achieving a goal or winning, but ultimately fails. It signifies a near miss, effort expended, progress made, but the final desired outcome remains just out of reach. It acknowledges the effort but highlights the lack of ultimate success. The tone is often lighthearted, acknowledging effort while pointing out the shortcoming, and can be used with a touch of playful ribbing.
Origin of “Close But No Cigar”
The phrase gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century, though its roots likely predate that timeframe. The most commonly cited origin points to carnival games prevalent in the early to mid-1900s. At these carnivals, strength tests, often involving hitting a target with a hammer to ring a bell, were common. Successfully ringing the bell usually earned the participant a prize, often a cheap cigar. Therefore, “close but no cigar” literally meant you came very close to winning the prize, but didn’t quite make it. The first recorded use in media appears in the 1935 film version of Annie Oakley, where the phrase is delivered as a playful jab after a near-successful shot. While the game itself may have faded, the idiom endured, transcending its literal origins and becoming a widely recognized expression.
Analysis: The Phrase in Literature and Beyond
The power of “close but no cigar” lies in its versatility. It operates on multiple levels, functioning as both a literal observation and a metaphorical commentary. In literature, it often signifies a character’s thwarted ambition, a plot twist that denies a desired outcome, or a poignant reminder of life’s inherent disappointments. The phrase adds a layer of realism and relatability, grounding fantastical narratives in the everyday struggles of human endeavor.
Literary Examples and Nuances
Consider Thomas Dolby’s song, “Close But No Cigar.” The repetitive use of the phrase isn’t merely a catchy lyric; it underscores the feeling of persistent near misses in a relationship. The singer acknowledges proximity to a desired connection, yet repeatedly emphasizes the ultimate failure to attain it. The repetition reinforces the frustration and disappointment.
In non-fiction, Stephen Purvis’s memoir, Close But No Cigar: A True Story of Prison Life in Castro’s Cuba, utilizes the phrase sarcastically. While the title suggests a minor setback, the book details the harrowing experiences of imprisonment and torture. The “cigar” represents freedom and safety, things Purvis nearly lost on multiple occasions. The phrase’s juxtaposition with the grim reality of his story highlights the fragility of hope and the constant threat of failure.
Jack Mannion’s book, Close But No Cigar: Humor and Homicide, connects the phrase to a specific cultural moment, nostalgic recollection of old carnival games. It’s a reflection on a simpler time and a commentary on the often-absurd nature of competition. The phrase is presented as a relic of the past, adding a touch of wistful humor to the narrative.
Ian Woodrow’s Close, But No Cigar: Six Easy Steps to Solving Business Problems demonstrates the phrase’s adaptability. Here, it signifies the prevalence of near-successful strategies that ultimately fall short, framing his methodology as a means to bridge the gap between effort and achievement. It’s a call to action, suggesting that with the right approach, one can avoid being “close but no cigar.”
Beyond Literature: The Phrase in Common Usage
The idiom extends far beyond the realm of literature. It frequently appears in sports commentary, political analysis, and everyday conversation. A basketball player who shoots close to the basket but misses, a political candidate who loses a close election, or even a student who almost passes an exam, and can be described as “close but no cigar.” The phrase’s widespread adoption is a testament to its succinctness and its ability to capture a universal human experience.
Further Considerations and Nuances
While generally lighthearted, “close but no cigar” can also carry a sting of disappointment, especially if the near miss represents a significant investment of time, effort, or resources. The context and tone of voice are crucial in determining how the phrase is received. It is generally considered insensitive to use it to dismiss someone’s genuine efforts or to belittle their accomplishments.
Furthermore, the phrase has evolved somewhat over time. In contemporary usage, it’s sometimes used self-deprecatingly, a way of acknowledging one’s own shortcomings without taking oneself too seriously.
Ultimately, “close but no cigar” remains a vibrant and enduring idiom. Its origins in carnival games have faded into the background, but its message that near misses are a part of life continues to resonate. Its versatility allows it to adapt to various contexts and convey a range of emotions, ensuring its continued relevance for generations to come.