The phrase "go sideways" is used to describe a situation where things unexpectedly take a turn for the worse. There are a number of synonyms that can be used to convey a similar meaning, such as "go south," "go awry," "go pear-shaped," "take a turn for the worse," "fall apart," "go off the rails," and "hit the skids." These phrases all imply that something that was once on track or going well has suddenly become problematic or has failed entirely. Whatever the specific term utilized, it is clear that when things "go sideways," it is not a good occurrence.