hell on earth
Filed under H
In a sentence
- After the tornado, the entire town was in ruins, and it looked like a true hell on earth.
- Working at that sweatshop was like being in hell on earth, with long hours and terrible conditions.
- Living with chronic pain can sometimes feel like a never-ending hell on earth.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "hell on earth" is a well-known expression in the English language that is used to describe a situation or experience that is extremely unpleasant, chaotic, or filled with suffering. This powerful metaphorical expression emphasizes the severity or intensity of a particular event or circumstance. The idiom can be traced back to the late 19th century and has since become widely used in both spoken and written contexts.
These idioms, "HE-double-L," "hell on wheels," and "go through hell," are all related to the concept of "hell on earth." They each add a unique nuance to the expression, highlighting different aspects of extreme suffering, chaos, or unpleasantness. Whether it is avoiding explicit language, emphasizing speed and intensity, or describing personal struggles, these idioms contribute to our understanding and use of the idiom "hell on earth" in everyday conversation.
The idiom "hell on earth" is a versatile and evocative expression that continues to be embraced by English speakers. Its enduring presence in the language reinforces the significance and resonance it holds in human experiences of suffering and adversity. Whether used casually or in more formal literary contexts, this idiom remains a powerful tool for conveying intense emotions and experiences. It serves as a reminder of the challenges and hardships that people face, and the strength and resilience they exhibit in the face of extreme circumstances.
Neighbouring idioms
- HE-double-LReligion & belief
- hell on wheels
- go through hellTrouble & conflict
- hell to payTrouble & conflict
- cold day in Hell
- hell and half of GeorgiaPlaces & travel
- catch hell
- forty minutes of hell
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.