"Went to hell" is an idiomatic expression that generally depicts a state of extreme difficult, failure, or downfall. It refers to a situation or experience that has become incredibly challenging, unpleasant, or disastrous. This phrase is typically used in informal conversations to emphasize the severity or negativity of a particular situation.
To illustrate this figurative meaning, one could imagine a person who has faced a series of unfortunate events or intense hardships. These hardships may have caused them great distress, emotional pain, or significant losses, leading them to exclaim that their life has "gone to hell." The phrase is not meant to be taken literally, rather, it vividly portrays the extent of their suffering or the gravity of their negative circumstances.
This idiom, derived from the concept of hell as a place of eternal punishment and suffering in many religious traditions, has been used throughout history to convey a drastic decline or a deeply troubled state of affairs. It can pertain to various aspects of life, such as relationships, careers, or personal circumstances. However, it is crucial to note that the expression is metaphorical and does not imply any literal religious belief or reference to an afterlife.
In summary, "went to hell" is an idiomatic expression that portrays a situation or experience that has become overwhelmingly difficult, distressing, or disastrous. It conveys a sense of extreme negativity and emphasizes the severity of a person's hardship or downfall.
