1.
fizzling out; tailing off; petering out; anticlimactic ending
Something that starts strong but gradually weakens, diminishes, or loses momentum toward the end. Literally describes something that narrows toward the rear.
Composed of 尻 (rear end, bottom) + すぼみ (narrowing, contracting, from すぼむ). Literally describes something that tapers off toward the end, like a shape that narrows at its base.
Usage
Typically used with になる (to become) or に終わる (to end). Carries a negative connotation — implies disappointment that something did not maintain its initial energy.
Common collocations
- 尻すぼみになる: to fizzle out, to peter out
- 尻すぼみに終わる: to end in an anticlimax
- 尻すぼみの結果: an anticlimactic result
Similar words
- 竜頭蛇尾: a strong start with a weak ending (a four-character idiom meaning "dragon head, snake tail")
- 中途半端: halfhearted, incomplete — different nuance, emphasizes incompleteness rather than tapering off
有終の美 (finishing beautifully) is the opposite sentiment — ending on a high note.