Ring off the hook

usgb
verb phrase

To be constantly getting phone calls, often with the implication of stress or agitation.

Since the news about my company was published, my phone has been ringing off the hook.
Visual representation of "ring off the hook" - To be constantly getting phone calls, often with the implication of stress or agitation.

Often appears as...

  • phone ring off the hook
  • been ringing off the hook

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "ring off the hook"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Figurative Use

The phrase is a metaphor; phones don't literally ring off a hook, but it suggests extreme frequency.

Illustration for Figurative Use
His popularity soared, and his phone started ringing off the hook with invitations.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Hyperbolic Expression

'Ring off the hook' often exaggerates the number of calls to emphasize the high volume.

Illustration for Hyperbolic Expression
After the lottery win, my phone didn't stop, it was ringing off the hook all day!
LampPro Tip 3/3

Potential Stress

It implies that receiving too many calls can be overwhelming and potentially stressful.

Illustration for Potential Stress
She could barely cope with the stress; her phone was ringing off the hook with clients.
Visual representation of the word "Ring off the hook"

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