all bedlam breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“All bedlam breaks loose when the school bell rings.”
“When the power went out during the storm, all bedlam broke loose in the crowded grocery store.”
“As the final whistle blew and the underdog team secured their victory, all bedlam broke loose in the stadium stands.”
disputed origin
Probably coined to act as an alternative to all hell breaks loose that would not be perceived to be potentially insensitive, impious, or otherwise inappropriate.
- 01
all hell breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
- 02
big break
A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.
- 03
break a leg
Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.
- 04
break a sweat
To put effort into something.
- 05
break cover
To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.
- 06
break down
To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.
- 07
break even
To neither gain nor lose money.
- 08
break gates
To enter an Oxford or Cambridge college enclosure after the hour to which a student has been restricted.
Last updated August 10, 2026