Meaning of "to hell in a handbag"

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nalfonso

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Joined
Jun 25, 2006
Hi there,

I just came across an expression that I can not get to understand fully...
What is the meaning of "going to hell in a handbag"?
Thanks for your help.
Regards,
Nel
 

Ouisch

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Mar 27, 2006
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English Teacher
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When something "goes to hell" it means it's deteriorating rapidly, or on a path headed for destruction. Example:

First it rained, then a raccoon got into the food; it looked like our whole picnic was going to hell.

"Going to hell in a handbag" (sometimes said as "going to hell in a handbasket") simply means going to hell a lot faster and without any effort! (Since a handbag is easy to carry.) :-D Example:

Ever since Pee Wee Herman was caught watching that X-rated movie, his career has gone to hell in a handbag.
 
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