The English language is full of idioms and phrases that can be confusing for non-native speakers. One such phrase is “bring the house down.” In this article, we will explore the meaning and origin of this phrase, as well as its usage in different contexts.
Definitions
The phrase “bring the house down” is an idiom that means to cause great excitement or enthusiasm among an audience. It is often used in the context of a performance, such as a concert or a play, where the performers are able to captivate the audience and leave them cheering and applauding.
Origin
The origin of this phrase is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the world of theater. In the early days of theater, the audience would often throw objects at the stage if they were unhappy with the performance. However, if the performance was exceptional, the audience would show their appreciation by stamping their feet and clapping so loudly that the building would shake, or “bring the house down.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “bring the house down” means to cause an audience to applaud or cheer loudly. Merriam-Webster defines it as “to cause a great deal of excitement or enthusiasm.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “to make people laugh or applaud very loudly.”
Associations
The phrase “bring the house down” is often associated with entertainment and performance. It is used to describe a particularly successful performance that leaves the audience feeling exhilarated and satisfied.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “bring the house down” include “wow the crowd,” “amaze the audience,” “blow people away,” and “leave them cheering.”
Antonyms
Antonyms for “bring the house down” might include “fall flat,” “flop,” “bomb,” or “disappoint the audience.”
The same root words
There are no other phrases or idioms that share the same root words as “bring the house down.”
Example Sentences
Here are a few examples of how “bring the house down” might be used in a sentence:
- The comedian’s jokes were so funny that he brought the house down.
- The band’s performance was electric, and they brought the house down with their final song.
- The actress’s emotional monologue brought the house down and left the audience in tears.
“Bring the house down” is a popular idiom that is often used to describe a successful performance that leaves the audience feeling exhilarated and satisfied. While its origins are unclear, the phrase has become a common part of the English language and is often used in the world of entertainment.