it'll end in tears

it'll (all) end in tears

Something is doomed to fail and cause a lot of heartache to everyone involved. I just don't think your personalities are a good match. I'm afraid it'll all end in tears. Everyone knew that their business venture would end in tears.
See also: end, tear
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

it'll end in tears

When people say it'll end in tears, they mean that they think a situation will end badly, with people being upset. Boris got himself involved in a relationship with a foreigner that was destined to end in tears. Markets are not stable, and for many companies and investors, it could well end in tears.
See also: end, tear
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
See also:
  • end in tears
  • it'll (all) end in tears
  • play a losing game
  • be fighting a losing battle
  • fight a losing battle
  • the sick man of
  • the sick man of (something or somewhere)
  • down the line
  • down the pike
  • make a laughingstock of
References in periodicals archive
Joel's carry on with Cleo looks like it'll end in tears if Sienna finds out.
If they go ahead and have a baby it'll end in tears. But he just doesn't see it.
I know how this fight is going to go and it'll end in tears for the jumped up Scouser.
But us fans still go along with all their hype Even though we know the Three Lions aren't the best In fact following England is like supporting Coventry City You know it'll end in tears and leave you really depressed !
It may no longer make your eyes water, but it'll end in tears.
I predict it'll end in tears. And when it does, I for one won't be crying.