Heads will roll

Meaning

The idiom "heads will roll" is a metaphorical expression used to indicate that someone or something will suffer severe consequences, often involving violence or destruction. It suggests that the people or things involved will be completely wiped out or eliminated.

Usage

• If the company's profits don't improve soon, heads will roll. - This sentence implies that if the company does not perform better financially, it could result in layoffs or terminations of employees.
• He made a big mistake and now his head is rolling. - This sentence suggests that someone has been punished severely for making a mistake, perhaps by being fired from their job.
• She was so angry she could have blown a fuse, and her head will roll. - This sentence implies that the person is extremely angry and could cause damage or harm to themselves if they continue to be angry.
• The new CEO's policies have resulted in major changes to the company, and some heads are rolling. - This sentence suggests that the CEO's new policies have caused significant upheaval within the company, leading to terminations of employees.
• He made a terrible mistake and now his head is rolling off the chopping block. - This sentence implies that someone has been punished severely for making a mistake, perhaps by being fired from their job or even killed.

Roots and History

The exact origin of the idiom "heads will roll" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in medieval times when executions were common. The phrase may have been used to warn people of the possibility of being beheaded, a common form of punishment during this time period. Over time, the phrase has taken on a more general meaning and can be applied to any situation where someone or something is punished severely.

Synonyms in English

• Hit the roof - This idiom implies that someone or something is extremely angry or upset.
• Blow one's stack - This idiom suggests that someone has lost their temper and is very angry.
• Have a meltdown - This idiom implies that someone is so angry or upset that they are unable to control themselves and may break down emotionally.

Synonyms in other languages

• 沉默 (jiùmò) - Chinese translation of "blow one's stack"
• 彻底的地狱 (chìdī de dì yōu) - Chinese translation of "hell on earth"
• 饭桶目 (fànbǎotóu) - Mandarin Chinese idiom meaning "to be fired or let go"

Similar Idioms

• high time

• high up

• hold all the aces