PhrasesHub

Complete shambles

    Definitions

      • total chaos or disorder
        Describing a situation that is completely disorganized and chaotic, with no sense of order or control. Can be used in both literal and figurative senses.

      • failure or disaster
        Referring to a situation that has gone horribly wrong, with no chance of recovery or success. Can also imply that something has been completely ruined or destroyed.

    Examples of Complete shambles


      Conclusion

      The idiom "complete shambles" is used to describe a situation that is completely disorganized or chaotic, with no sense of order or control. It can also refer to a situation that has gone horribly wrong or ended in failure or disaster. This phrase can be used in both literal and figurative senses, making it a versatile idiom for describing various scenarios.

      In a literal sense, "complete shambles" can refer to a physical space or environment that is in a state of total chaos and disorder. This could be a messy room or a disorganized event that is not going according to plan. In a figurative sense, it can describe a situation or event that has become overwhelmingly chaotic, often due to unforeseen circumstances or poor planning.

      Origin of "Complete shambles"

      The origin of this idiom is not clear, but it is believed to have originated in British English. The word "shambles" itself is derived from the Old English word "sceamol," which referred to a slaughterhouse or butcher's stall. Over time, it came to be used figuratively to describe a chaotic or disorderly environment.

      The addition of the word "complete" intensifies the meaning of the idiom, emphasizing the extent of the chaos or failure being described. It is often used as an exaggeration to convey the severity of a situation.

      Examples of this idiom can be found in literature and popular culture, such as in the book "The Complete Shambles" by Nigel Williams and in the movie "Complete Shambles" directed by James Dearden. Its popularity and usage continue to grow, making it a commonly understood expression in modern English.