No Cigar

No Cigar is an idiom used to express near success, but ultimately failure, in achieving a desired outcome or goal. It implies that the effort was close, almost successful, but fell short of the mark.

The origin of the phrase is often attributed to carnival games or contests where the prize for winning was a cigar. Failing to win, even by a small margin, would result in "no cigar." The imagery of the near miss, just short of the prize, is what the idiom conveys.

The expression is generally used informally and can be applied to various situations, including:

• Attempting a task: Describing a failed attempt to complete a task.
• Making a prediction: Expressing that a prediction was almost correct.
• Negotiating a deal: Indicating that a negotiation failed to reach a mutually agreeable conclusion.
• Competing in a game or contest: Suggesting a close defeat in a competition.

The phrase carries a connotation of slight disappointment and is often used with a tone of resignation or humor. It suggests that while the effort was commendable, the ultimate objective was not achieved. Similar idioms include "close but no banana" or "almost made it."