[Idiom] MEET YOUR WATERLOO. - Understanding Failure and Turning It into Success

face a defeat

'Meet your Waterloo' refers to experiencing a significant, often final, defeat. It alludes to the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 where Napoleon Bonaparte faced a crushing defeat. This idiom is often used in contexts where an individual encounters an obstacle or opponent that ultimately overpowers them, marking a pivotal defeat in their career or life.

Example Sentences

1. He met his Waterloo when he tried to challenge the champion.

   He was defeated when he tried to challenge the champion.

2. The small startup met its Waterloo in the competitive market.

   The small startup failed in the competitive market.

3. She met her Waterloo when her opponent unveiled a new strategy.

   She was defeated when her opponent revealed a new strategy.