house of ill fame: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘house of ill fame’ mean?

The idiom "house of ill fame" refers to a place, often a brothel, that is known for immoral activities and a bad reputation.

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The idiom "house of ill fame" has a number of related idioms that further illustrate its meaning and connotations. One such idiom is "den of iniquity," which is often used interchangeably with "house of ill fame" to describe a place where immoral or illicit activities take place. Both idioms evoke a sense of moral corruption and disrepute.

Another related idiom is "basket house," which refers to a brothel or establishment where sexual services are offered. This idiom emphasizes the secretive and underground nature of these establishments, as well as the objectification of women involved in the sex trade.

The ill actor's house became a place of fame.

The idiom "house of God" stands in stark contrast to the negative connotations of "house of ill fame." It refers to a place of worship, such as a church or mosque, where people gather for religious purposes. This idiom highlights the dichotomy between the sacred and the profane, and serves as a reminder of the different functions that buildings can serve within society.

Lastly, the idiom "house of cards" can be linked to "house of ill fame" in terms of their metaphorical meanings. While "house of ill fame" suggests a place built on immoral or illicit foundations, "house of cards" implies a precarious or fragile structure that is susceptible to collapse. Both idioms convey a sense of instability and the potential for downfall.

These related idioms further enhance the understanding of "house of ill fame" and provide additional context for its usage. Whether evoking images of moral corruption, secrecy, sacredness, or fragility, these idioms contribute to the colorful and nuanced world of language and expression.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "house of ill fame" can be used in a sentence:

  1. After getting caught in a raid, the police shut down a notorious house of ill fame in the city.
  2. Several tabloids published scandalous stories about a high-profile celebrity allegedly frequenting a house of ill fame.
  3. During the Victorian era, visiting a house of ill fame was considered a taboo and scandalous activity.

The idiom "house of ill fame" refers to a brothel or establishment that engages in immoral or illegal activities, typically associated with prostitution. It conveys a negative connotation and is often used to describe places involved in illicit activities or disreputable behavior. The phrase "house of ill fame" emphasizes the disreputable nature of such establishments and is not used in literal terms to describe actual houses.

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