get out of jail free card

📖 general
Meaning
A metaphor for an exemption from consequences or punishment; a way to avoid responsibility or escape a difficult situation without penalty.
Literal Meaning
A card from the game Monopoly that allows a player to leave jail without paying a fine.
Example
“He thought his apology would be a get out of jail free card, but his boss still fired him.”

More in general

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all bedlam breaks loose

A situation characterized by extreme confusion, chaos, or disorder.

all bets are off

The situation has entirely changed, and previous assumptions or agreements no longer apply.

all duck or no dinner

An all-or-nothing situation where one either achieves complete success or total failure.

all ears

Listening eagerly and attentively.