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 get 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
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
when the band begins to play
when matters become serious.See also: band, begin, play
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- before the balloon goes up
- balloon goes up, the
- come to such a pass
- come to a pretty pass
- a pretty pass
- get out of a jam
- be up a/the creek (without a paddle)
- be up the creek without a paddle
- you deal with it