down the drain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Commentators draw parallels with other intractable conflicts, and count the taxpayer money they say has spiraled down the drain.

From Slate • Jun. 27, 2026

Which is why I’m going to teach you how to never pour that delicious oil down the drain again.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

"That's when everything went down the drain," she said.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Once rinsed down the drain, these fibers can enter wastewater systems.

From Science Daily • Apr. 18, 2026

I watched the brown water run down the drain and was afraid I'd use it all up.

From "The Night Diary" by Veera Hiranandani