English Idioms from A-Z

Jump The Shark

The idiom "jump the shark" is used to describe a moment when something (usually a TV show, movie, or trend) has reached its peak and begins to decline in quality or popularity. The phrase comes from an episode of the TV show "Happy Days" where the character Fonzie jumps over a shark on water skis, which many viewers saw as a desperate attempt to keep the show interesting.

So, when we say that something has "jumped the shark," we mean that it has passed its prime and is no longer as good or relevant as it once was. This can happen to anything that becomes too predictable, repetitive, or gimmicky.

For example, if a popular TV show starts to rely too heavily on guest stars or outrageous plot twists, it may be said to have "jumped the shark." Similarly, if a fashion trend becomes too over-the-top or ubiquitous, it may be said to have "jumped the shark."

Overall, the phrase "jump the shark" is a way to describe the moment when something has lost its original charm or appeal and has become a caricature of itself.


The usage of the idiom 'Jump The Shark' in a sentence

• The CEO's decision to invest in a failing company was seen as a jump the shark moment for the company's future.

• The acclaimed author's latest novel was widely criticized for its indulgent plot and lack of substance, leading many to believe that she had jumped the shark.

• The TV show was really good at first, but then it jumped the shark when they added a talking dog.

• The company's latest product launch was a bit of a jump the shark moment.

• The movie franchise had already started to decline, but the latest installment really jumped the shark with its nonsensical plot.

• I don't understand what you mean by "jump the shark."

• The author's latest book is a clear indication that he has "jumped the shark" and lost his touch with his audience.

• I think the movie franchise has "jumped the shark" when they introduced talking animals.

• The restaurant's new menu items are a clear sign that they're trying to "jump the shark" and attract a younger crowd.

• The political candidate's recent controversial statement has caused many to believe that he has "jumped the shark" and ruined his chances of winning the election.

• I don't understand what my friend meant when he said that the TV show, which I love, has "jumped the shark".

• The company's decision to release a new product every month has caused some customers to feel like they're "jumping the shark".

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