Pronunciation: [fˈɛl flˈat ˌɒn fˈe͡ɪs] (IPA) 
The phrase "fell flat on face" is a common idiom that means to fail in a humiliating or embarrassing way. The IPA phonetic transcription of this phrase would be /fɛl flæt ɑn feɪs/. The word "fell" is pronounced with a short e sound, as in "tell," while "flat" is pronounced with a flat a sound, as in "cat." "On" and "face" are pronounced with their standard long o and long a sounds, respectively.
The phrase "fell flat on face" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation or gesture that fails or has an embarrassing outcome. It implies a figurative or literal fall or stumble resulting in humiliation or disappointment.
When used in a literal sense, "fell flat on face" refers to a physical act of tripping, stumbling, or losing balance, causing a person to fall forward and bear the brunt of the impact on their face. This can occur due to a lack of coordination, being taken by surprise, or underestimating obstacles in one's path.
In a figurative sense, "fell flat on face" signifies an unsuccessful attempt at something, such as a joke, a public performance, a business venture, or even a relationship. It suggests that the end result was met with indifference, disappointment, or even ridicule, leaving the person feeling embarrassed or disheartened.
The phrase emphasizes not only the failure itself but also the public or personal embarrassment that accompanies it. It implies a lack of grace or finesse in executing a certain action or delivering an idea, which results in an unfavorable outcome. Like falling on one's face, this idiom conveys an image of vulnerability, helplessness, and a loss of dignity.
