Meaning of the word "Throw a spanner in the works" in English

What does "Throw a spanner in the works" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

Throw a spanner in the works

US /θroʊ ə ˈspænər ɪn ðə wɜrks/
UK /θrəʊ ə ˈspænər ɪn ðə wɜːks/

Idiom

to do something that prevents a plan or activity from succeeding

Example:
Just when everything was going smoothly, he decided to throw a spanner in the works with his sudden resignation.
The unexpected budget cuts really threw a spanner in the works for our expansion plans.