Used to describe a sudden, intense situation - often negative or involving conflict. When the verdict was read, all hell broke loose in the courtroom.
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Figurative Sense
This phrase is not about real hell; it's used to give a strong image of disorder. When the fire alarm sounded, all hell broke loose as everyone scrambled to exit.
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Informal Context
Most appropriate in casual conversation or artistic expressions, not formal situations. After the last-minute goal, all hell broke loose among the fans.