General
stop the lights
What does stop the lights mean?
An exclamation of amazement, disbelief or exasperation.
"He won the lotto? Stop the lights!"
Origin
From the Irish TV game show 'Quicksilver', whose catchphrase entered everyday speech.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'stop the lights' mean?
It is an exclamation of amazement, disbelief or exasperation, similar to 'well I never!'
Where does 'stop the lights' come from?
It comes from the Irish TV game show 'Quicksilver', whose catchphrase passed into everyday speech.
How do you use 'stop the lights'?
You blurt it out on hearing surprising news, e.g. 'He won the lotto? Stop the lights!'
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