DROP A CLANGER

To drop a clanger is to make an embarrassing mistake, especially in a social context.

 Examples of use:

 “He is married to Lucia Guo, who was born in Xian in central China, and they have three children. During a recent trip to China he dropped a clanger by saying his wife was Japanese instead.”

 “He gets so close to making it through the interview, but ultimately drops a clanger.”

 “It is not uncommon for a goalkeeper to drop a clanger now and again, but you have to feel for Crystal Palace shot-stopper Julian Speroni on this occasion.”

 You may remember the children’s TV series, The Clangers. You can find their website here (videos included).

 This expression originates from the mid 20th century and is thought to relate to the loud clang made by dropping certain objects, which attracts attention.

 [1] “drop” In Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms, edited by Ayto, John. Oxford University Press, 2009.

 Photo credit: diamond geezer