Lights out Meaning in English
expression
Definition
"Lights out" means the time when all lights must be turned off, often used in places like the military, prisons, or schools to signal bedtime or quiet time. It can also mean turning off the lights in general.
Usage & Nuances
Common in institutional settings (military, prison, boarding school). As a command, usually refers to a set time. Informally, can mean 'turn off the lights' before sleeping. Not usually used in everyday conversation for just switching off lights. Sometimes used metaphorically for 'the end' or 'game over'.
Example Sentences
When the clock strikes ten, it's lights out at the camp.
basic
Please remember, lights out is at eleven in the dorm.
basic
After lights out, everyone must be quiet.
basic
The kids tried to talk after lights out, but the teacher caught them.
natural
Just before lights out, we would always tell each other spooky stories.
natural
He was so tired that as soon as it was lights out, he fell asleep instantly.
natural