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That's my idea of hell

Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.

20 August 2026

That's my idea of hell

We use this expression to talk about a very unpleasant experience or situation that you don’t want to experience now or in the future.

Written: Yes

Spoken: Yes

Formal: No

Informal: Yes

Example 1

I’m going for a 10 kilometre run later. Do you want to come?

Thanks for the offer, but really, that’s my idea of hell! I can't stand running.

Example 2

My new job’s great! I get to talk to people all day long, and I’m on the phone most of the time.

Really? That’s my idea of hell. But I’m glad you’re enjoying it.

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Apr2026
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