[hit] {sb} like a ton of bricks
1
to experience the sudden, surprising, and overwhelming impact of something, that catches someone off guard and leaves them feeling stunned or overwhelmed
The phrase "hit someone like a ton of bricks" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the United States. It means to be suddenly and overwhelmingly struck by a strong emotion, realization, or a shocking event. It is used to describe a sudden and intense impact or realization, often in an emotional or mental context.
- The news of her accident hit me like a ton of bricks.
- The news of her sudden illness hit me like a ton of bricks; I couldn't believe it was happening.
- His breakup with his long-time girlfriend hit him like a ton of bricks, and he was devastated.
- The realization that I had forgotten my passport just as I arrived at the airport hit me like a ton of bricks.
- The severity of the car accident only hit me like a ton of bricks when I saw the damage to my car.