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Region: US | Usage example: For crying in the dark, answer the phone!

For crying in the dark

Meaning

An emphatic expression of surprise or frustration.

Usage

Old-timey exasperation, especially in the South.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Variation of 'for crying out loud' with older 'in the dark'.

Found in Appalachian speech and early 20th-century fiction.

Related Idioms

Dark horse

An unexpected contender or talent.

A shot in the dark

A guess based on little information.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.