In God’s/Heaven’s name
interjection
Used to express surprise, shock, or confusion.
In God's name, how did you manage to sneak up on me like that?
Often appears as...
- what in god's name
- who in god's name
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to express anger or annoyance.
In Heaven's name, stop that loud music!
Often appears as...
- stop in god's name
- in heaven's name be quiet
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to make a strong appeal or demand.
I ask you in God's name to stop this madness.
Often appears as...
- ask in god's name
- demand in heaven's name
Usage tips
Formal
interjection
Used to express surprise, shock, or confusion.
In God's name, how did you manage to sneak up on me like that?
Often appears as...
- what in god's name
- who in god's name
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to express anger or annoyance.
In Heaven's name, stop that loud music!
Often appears as...
- stop in god's name
- in heaven's name be quiet
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
interjection
Used to make a strong appeal or demand.
I ask you in God's name to stop this madness.
Often appears as...
- ask in god's name
- demand in heaven's name
Usage tips
Formal
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Emphasizes Shock
Heightens the expression of surprise or disbelief in a situation.
In God's name, when did this happen?
Pro Tip 2/3Rhetorical Question
Often pairs with questions that don't expect literal answers, just to show astonishment.
What in God's name were they thinking?
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
It's a figure of speech and does not involve religious context in regular conversations.
How in God's name did this mistake occur?
Never forget "In God’s/Heaven’s name"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension