going for a burton

The phrase "going for a burton" is slang that originated in British English during World War II. It is an idiomatic expression used to refer to someone or something that is expected to fail, be lost, or meet an unfortunate end. It can also describe a situation or plan that has gone wrong or is doomed to failure. The phrase's origin is uncertain, but one theory suggests that it emerged from the practice of British soldiers during the war, who, when a comrade was killed in action, would say they had "gone for a burton" (referring to the beer brand "Burton Ale") to lighten the mood or avoid acknowledging death. Over time, the phrase's meaning expanded to encompass broader contexts of failure or loss.