Paint the town red

Meaning

"Paint the town red" is an idiom that means to go out and have a wild, exciting time, often involving excessive drinking and partying. It is also used to describe someone who is energetic, lively, or full of life.

Usage

• When my friends and I decided to paint the town red for my birthday, we went to three different bars and ordered shots of every drink on the menu.
• After finishing his work, John couldn't resist the urge to paint the town red with his colleagues at the company party.
• The city's vibrant nightlife scene is known for its ability to paint the town red with endless possibilities for fun and entertainment.
• The lively music and electric atmosphere at the concert made me want to paint the town red and dance all night long.
• I always try to paint the town red when I'm on vacation, exploring new places and experiencing different cultures.

Roots and History

The origins of the phrase "paint the town red" are uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in Ireland during the 19th century. It was often used to describe a group of men who went out on a drinking spree, causing chaos and destruction in their wake. Over time, the phrase evolved to include any type of wild or lively activity, and has since become a common idiom used in English-speaking countries around the world.

Synonyms in English

• Let loose
• Have a blast
• Go wild
• Cut loose
• Live it up

Synonyms in other languages

• French: Vivre le moment
• Spanish: Vencer el miedo
• Italian: Liberarsi da tutto
• German: Freizeit genießen
• Dutch: Vrolijk zijn

Similar Idioms

• prick up ears

• pass the baton

• baby blues