Pronunciation: [blˈuː mˈɜːdə] (IPA) 
The phrase "blue murder" is often used colloquially to describe a loud, angry scene or commotion. Interestingly, the spelling of "blue" in this context is not related to the color, but rather a different meaning of the word that originated in the 17th century. This meaning, which is now considered archaic, referred to something outrageous or extreme. The phonetic transcription of "blue murder" would be /blu ˈməːdə/.
Blue murder is a colloquial expression that originated in the United Kingdom and is used to describe a situation or action that is regarded as highly shocking, outrageous, or extreme. It is often used to convey a sense of intense anger, excitement, or fear, typically in a hyperbolic manner.
The phrase "blue murder" is believed to have originated from the association between the color blue and explicit language or obscenities. In Victorian times, the word "blue" was often used to refer to indecent or profane language. The addition of "murder" heightens the impact of the expression, emphasizing the severity and enormity of the situation or action being described.
When someone exclaims "blue murder," they are expressing their strong disapproval or astonishment. It is often used to convey a sense of outrage or shock at a person's behavior, an unexpected event, or a shocking revelation. For example, if someone learns of a major betrayal or deception, they might exclaim, "He lied to us for years? That's blue murder!"
The phrase is predominantly used in informal or colloquial contexts, particularly in British English. It adds color and emphasis to the speaker's emotions, reflecting a strong reaction to a particular situation. Overall, "blue murder" denotes an extreme level of outcry, capturing the essence of a shocking or scandalous event or action.
The phrase "blue murder" has an interesting etymology that can be traced back to the late 18th century in England.
The word "blue" in this context does not refer to the color, but rather to the use of the word "blue" as a euphemism for profanity or indecency. In the 17th and 18th centuries, blue was associated with bawdiness, indecent language, or something considered obscene. This connection can also be seen in phrases like "blue jokes" or "blue language". It is believed that the use of "blue" in this sense originated from the French word "bleu", which referred to a notorious or scandalous story.
"Murder", on the other hand, was used metaphorically to mean a great outcry or uproar. It was commonly used to emphasize strong feelings or expressions of anger, distress, or astonishment.
