Fall off the wagon
/fɔːl ɒf ðə ˈwæɡən/informalUK · US
What does “Fall off the wagon” mean?
Fall off the wagon means to start drinking alcohol again after a period without it
If someone says they fell off the wagon, check the context before assuming they mean a minor lapse. They may be talking about a difficult return to drinking.
It is also used jokingly about diets or other habits. That lighter use can sound insensitive around someone dealing with addiction.
When do people say it?
Most strongly associated with returning to alcohol after abstaining. People also use it loosely for returning to a habit they meant to stop.
“After six months without alcohol, he fell off the wagon and asked for support.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The phrase contrasts being “on the wagon”, or abstaining from alcohol, with falling off it. The fall represents a break in that commitment.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Fall off the wagon” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-10-01