All hell breaks loose – Definition & Meaning

Conclusion

The phrase “all hell breaks loose” is a common expression used to describe a situation where chaos, confusion, and disorder take over. It is an idiomatic expression that has been used for centuries and is still popularly used today. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning in different dictionaries, associations, synonyms, antonyms, root words, and example sentences of “all hell breaks loose.”

Definitions

The phrase “all hell breaks loose” is an idiomatic expression that means a situation where things suddenly become chaotic, out of control, and extremely difficult to handle. It is a metaphorical way of describing a situation where everything that can go wrong does go wrong, and there is no way to stop it.

Origin

The origin of the phrase “all hell breaks loose” is not clear. However, it is believed to have originated from the Christian belief in the existence of hell as a place of chaos, confusion, and disorder. The phrase may have been used to describe situations where the forces of evil seemed to be winning over the forces of good.

Meaning in different dictionaries

The phrase “all hell breaks loose” has various meanings in different dictionaries. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, it means “a situation where chaos, confusion, and disorder take over.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a situation in which there is sudden and extreme disorder or confusion.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a situation where there is a sudden and violent change.”

Associations

The phrase “all hell breaks loose” is associated with situations that are chaotic, stressful, and difficult to manage. It is often used to describe situations such as natural disasters, riots, wars, accidents, and emergencies.

Synonyms

There are several synonyms of the phrase “all hell breaks loose,” including:

  • Chaos.
  • Pandemonium.
  • Mayhem.
  • Turmoil.
  • Bedlam.
  • Anarchy.
  • Disorder.

Antonyms

The antonyms of the phrase “all hell breaks loose” include:

  • Order.
  • Calm.
  • Peace.
  • Serenity.
  • Harmony.
  • Stability.

The same root words

The phrase “all hell breaks loose” does not have any specific root words. However, it is an idiomatic expression that uses metaphorical language to convey a message.

Example Sentences

Here are some example sentences that use the phrase “all hell breaks loose”:

  • When the power went out, all hell broke loose in the office.
  • The moment the referee made the wrong call, all hell broke loose on the field.
  • As soon as the storm hit, all hell broke loose in the city.
  • When the CEO announced the company’s bankruptcy, all hell broke loose in the boardroom.
  • When the fire alarm went off, all hell broke loose in the hotel.

In conclusion, the phrase “all hell breaks loose” is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used to describe a situation where chaos, confusion, and disorder take over. It is a metaphorical way of describing a situation where everything that can go wrong does go wrong, and there is no way to stop it. The phrase has been used for centuries and is still popularly used today to describe various situations.

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