when the band begins to play

when the band begins to play

When the situation becomes serious, critical, chaotic, or troublesome. Our analysts have been predicting a market crash for months now. If we don't diversify our assets soon, we're going to be in serious trouble when the band begins to play. My parents' relationship has been on the rocks for years. I just hope I'm out of the house when the band begins to play.

See also: band, begin, play, to

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

when the band begins to play

when matters become serious.

See also: band, begin, play, to

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017