Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

all-hell-breaks-loose

idiom

/ɔːl hɛl breɪks luːs/

Definition

A phrase used to indicate that chaos, confusion, or disorder erupts suddenly.

Examples

When the announcement was made, all hell broke loose in the crowd.
As soon as the storm hit, all hell broke loose with debris flying everywhere.
When she found out about the surprise party, all hell broke loose as she screamed in excitement.

Meaning

When someone says ‘all hell breaks loose,’ they mean that a situation has escalated into a chaotic or tumultuous state, often due to unexpected events.