Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hit-the-fan
idiom
/hɪt ðə fæn/
Definition
To encounter a sudden crisis or chaotic situation, usually as a result of something going wrong.
Examples
- When the manager discovered the missing funds, all hell broke loose; that’s when the hit-the-fan moment happened.
- Everything was going smoothly at the party until the power went out, and that’s when things really hit the fan.
Meaning
When things start to go badly and cause a lot of trouble or problems, often unexpectedly.
Synonyms
- go awry
- go south
- gone wrong
- fall apart
