all hell breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“All hell breaks loose when the school bell rings.”
“The team was working quietly until the manager announced the layoffs, and then all hell broke loose in the office.”
“As soon as the controversial decision was announced to the restless crowd, all hell broke loose, and the peaceful protest quickly turned into a chaotic scene.”
- 01
all bedlam breaks loose
The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.
- 02
all over hell's half acre
All over the place; everywhere.
- 03
big break
A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.
- 04
break a leg
Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.
- 05
break a sweat
To put effort into something.
- 06
break cover
To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.
- 07
break down
To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.
- 08
break even
To neither gain nor lose money.
Last updated August 10, 2026