Bring the house down
verb phrase
To make a group of people or audience react very enthusiastically, especially by laughter or applause.
The comedian's joke was so funny, it brought the house down.
Often appears as...
- her performance brought the house down
- the joke brought the house down
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To cause an establishment or institution to cease functioning or collapse.
His irresponsible management of funds led to bring the house down.
Often appears as...
- mismanagement brought the house down
- his approach led to bring the house down
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To make a group of people or audience react very enthusiastically, especially by laughter or applause.
The comedian's joke was so funny, it brought the house down.
Often appears as...
- her performance brought the house down
- the joke brought the house down
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To cause an establishment or institution to cease functioning or collapse.
His irresponsible management of funds led to bring the house down.
Often appears as...
- mismanagement brought the house down
- his approach led to bring the house down
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Reaction
Used when a performance or speech receives strong, positive feedback from the audience.
The singer's last note brought the house down.
Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Language
It's a metaphor that exaggerates the audience's response to express how well-received a show or act was.
At the end of his routine, the magician brought the house down.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Doesn't mean a physical house falling; it's about the impact of someone's actions or performance.
Her powerful speech brought the house down.
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Reaction
Used when a performance or speech receives strong, positive feedback from the audience.
The singer's last note brought the house down.
Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Language
It's a metaphor that exaggerates the audience's response to express how well-received a show or act was.
At the end of his routine, the magician brought the house down.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Doesn't mean a physical house falling; it's about the impact of someone's actions or performance.
Her powerful speech brought the house down.
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Reaction
Used when a performance or speech receives strong, positive feedback from the audience.
The singer's last note brought the house down.
Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Language
It's a metaphor that exaggerates the audience's response to express how well-received a show or act was.
At the end of his routine, the magician brought the house down.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Doesn't mean a physical house falling; it's about the impact of someone's actions or performance.
Her powerful speech brought the house down.
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