all hell [break] (loose|out)
1
used when a situation suddenly becomes very intense or chaotic
The origin of the phrase "all hell break loose" is not precisely documented, but it is believed to have evolved from earlier expressions that vividly describe a chaotic and uncontrollable situation. The phrase is used to describe moments when a situation quickly deteriorates or becomes extremely chaotic, with various problems, conflicts, or disturbances erupting simultaneously.
- One policeman drew his gun and then suddenly all hell is let loose.
- Turkish government registered its protest that all hell was let loose.
- When the referee made a controversial call, all hell broke loose on the soccer field as players from both teams engaged in a brawl.
- As soon as the power went out during the storm, all hell broke loose in the dark, with people panicking and searching for flashlights.
- When the news of the scandal hit the headlines, all hell broke out in the political arena, leading to resignations and investigations.