# all bedlam breaks loose

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/all-bedlam-breaks-loose
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

## Examples

- 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.

## 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. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.