Things that go bump in the night

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phrase

Imaginary or unseen fearful objects or creatures, typically associated with the dark or nighttime.

After watching a scary movie, she was afraid of things that go bump in the night.
Visual representation of "things that go bump in the night" - Imaginary or unseen fearful objects or creatures, typically associated with the dark or nighttime

Often appears as...

  • afraid of things that go bump in the night
  • hear things that go bump in the night

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "things that go bump in the night"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Fear Inducer

This phrase is often used to describe the cause of irrational fear, especially at night.

Illustration for Fear Inducer
He refused to sleep alone, citing things that go bump in the night as his main fear.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Child's Imagination

Children's stories or experiences may refer to this phrase to describe monsters under the bed.

Illustration for Child's Imagination
The child's story was full of things that go bump in the night that only he could see.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Real

Emphasize that the phrase refers to imaginary fears, not actual dangers.

Illustration for Not Real
She realized that her fears were just things that go bump in the night, entirely made up.
Visual representation of the word "Things that go bump in the night"

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