what the hell
Idioms-
It's not important, who cares, as in It cost a lot more, but what the hell, we can afford it . [Second half of 1800s] Also see what of it .
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An intensive of what , as in What the hell do you think you're doing? [First half of 1800s] Also see under on earth .
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Twenty-five years ago, Jay realized there were increasing concerns on Teton Pass, so he said, what the hell, I’m going to go up there and help,” said Kofinas.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 17, 2025
“Outside perspective, this seems nuts and crazy and people are probably wondering what the hell we’re doing. And I feel the same way.”
From Salon • Mar. 13, 2025
There were women who were bucking the system and doing what the hell they wanted to do, like blues women traveling the world.
From New York Times • Nov. 27, 2024
That prompted a strong response from the president, who said: "I know what the hell I'm doing. I don't need his recommendation".
From BBC • May 16, 2024
Martin shoots me a look like he’s asking me what the hell this is all about.
From "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
