ENGLISH
REFERENCE

tears before bedtime

idiom
Meaning

Harm or damage that is incurred before a matter is concluded.


Examples
SIMPLE

If you keep playing so roughly, it will be tears before bedtime.

CONTEXTUAL

The children were running near the pool, and I warned them that it would be tears before bedtime.

COMPLEX

Ignoring the clear warning signs of the storm, the hikers continued their ascent, seemingly unaware that their reckless haste would lead to tears before bedtime.

Anchors to
Related idioms7entries
  1. 01

    blood, sweat and tears

    A person's determination and hard work.

  2. 02

    burst into tears

    To suddenly start crying or sobbing.

  3. 03

    end in tears

    To end badly.

  4. 04

    move someone to tears

    to cause to cry

  5. 05

    reduce someone to tears

    To cause to cry.

  6. 06

    two tears in a bucket

    Used to express an acceptance of misfortune.

  7. 07

    vale of tears

    The world, a place where difficulties and the sorrows of life are felt, especially (Christianity) as a place to be left behind when one dies and goes to heaven.

Last updated April 17, 2026