Stop the lights, you actually finished that project on time?
stop the lights
idiomAn interjection expressing exasperation or incredulity. or to illustrate the humour in a situation.
Origin
disputed origin* Originated as a catchphrase on the Irish quiz show Quicksilver, where contestants called out "Stop the lights" when they did not know the answer, to prevent loss of prize money for the next questions.
Stop the lights, I cannot believe he wore that ridiculous costume to the serious business meeting.
Stop the lights, the sheer absurdity of the situation left the entire room in a state of stunned, laughing disbelief.
- 01
a short drop and a sudden stop
A fall to one's death by hanging.
- 02
amber light
Hesitance to proceed; limited approval or permission to proceed.
- 03
bright lights
The glamour and glitz of a place, especially a big city.
- 04
bring to light
To expose, disclose or reveal something that was hidden or unknown.
- 05
come to light
To become known; to be revealed.
- 06
couldn't stop a pig in a passage
To be bow-legged.
- 07
face that would stop a clock
A shockingly unattractive face.
- 08
false light
A point of view resulting in a misleading or inaccurate representation of a person, situation, or fact.
Last updated April 17, 2026