meaning of "all hell broke loose"

[Luchta]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #302 "English Slang Idioms (24)", question 1

His friend decided to push the police officer, who was questioning him and all ......... broke loose.

(a) hats
(b) hell
(c) ropes
(d) cows

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #302 "English Slang Idioms (24)", answer 1

His friend decided to push the police officer, who was questioning him and all hell broke loose.

Correct answer: (b) hell
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what does idioms mean?

Luchta

[Ralf]

Hi Luchta,

"What does idiom mean?" should be the question here

An idiom is a fixed expression, often used in a metaphorical way. Saying that 'all hell breaks loose' is a common metaphor for saying 'the situation gets out of control'. You could also say 'a situation goes completely off course' or 'a situation goes pear-shaped'.
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