Without a hitch

Idiomatic Phrase
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

An idiomatic phrase meaning smoothly, without problems, delays, or complications, suggesting seamless execution, perfect coordination, and absence of obstacles or errors.

Detailed Definition
Without a hitch means smoothly, successfully, and without problems or interruptions. In poetry, the idiom can describe ceremonies, journeys, performances, plans, or schemes that proceed as intended. The “hitch” suggests a snag, knot, or sudden obstruction, so its absence implies clean movement. A poet may use it sincerely for relief, or ironically before hidden trouble appears. The phrase is useful for exploring expectation, order, and the surprising emotional power of things going simply as planned.
Example
Example in poetry:
A wedding poem might say the ceremony passed without a hitch, though the groom forgot the ring until the last second; In a voyage poem, the crossing goes without a hitch beneath kind winds; The phrase means without problems; A poet can use it for relief or gentle irony.
Additional Notes
Without a hitch means smoothly, without problems, delays, or interruptions. A hitch is a snag, catch, or difficulty, so the idiom imagines progress as movement that does not catch. In poetry, it can be used sincerely or ironically before something goes wrong. It suits weddings, journeys, ceremonies, performances, and plans. Students should ask whether smoothness is natural, carefully managed, or only apparent. It pairs well with ropes, roads, clocks, and rehearsals.
Also Known As
smoothly
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