for the hell of it

USAGE SUMMARY

"for the hell of it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you are doing something just for fun or out of curiosity without a specific purpose. For example, "We decided to take a road trip for the hell of it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Just for the hell of it.

The Guardian

This is modernism for the hell of it.

The New Yorker

And he chirped his horn for the hell of it.

The Guardian - Travel

He challenges, just for the hell of it.

The Guardian - Sport

"We just joined for the hell of it.

The New York Times

7.30pm Sack local MP, for the hell of it.

The Guardian

A cat-themed remix album for the hell of it?

The Guardian - Music

And all just for the hell of it, really.

The Guardian - Sport

I don't do these things for the hell of it.

The Guardian - Sport

"I couldn't do it just for the hell of it," he says.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Oh, and just for the hell of it, here's Schaap acting like a goddamn fool.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for the hell of it" to convey a sense of spontaneity or lack of serious intent. It's perfect when describing actions done without a deep underlying reason, simply for the experience or amusement.

Common error

While "for the hell of it" is widely understood, it can sound flippant or irreverent in professional or academic settings. Opt for more neutral phrases like "for no particular reason" or "simply because" in formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the hell of it" functions as an adverbial phrase. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and suitable for use in written English. It modifies a verb, explaining the reason or motivation behind an action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

11%

Science

11%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for the hell of it" is an idiomatic expression used to describe actions taken without a specific or serious reason. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage. While it's prevalent in informal contexts like general news and media, it should be used cautiously in formal or professional settings where a more neutral tone is preferred. Remember to choose alternative expressions like "just because" or "for no particular reason" in such scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for the fun of it

This alternative highlights the enjoyment or amusement derived from the action.

just because

This alternative is more concise, implying the action is done without a specific reason.

for kicks

A more informal alternative suggesting the action is done for excitement or thrill.

for no particular reason

This alternative emphasizes the lack of a specific motive or justification for the action.

spur of the moment

Similar to 'on a whim', emphasizing the unplanned and spontaneous nature.

simply because I wanted to

A more personal and direct alternative emphasizing individual desire.

on a whim

This alternative focuses on the sudden and impulsive nature of the action.

out of sheer curiosity

This alternative highlights curiosity as the driving force behind the action.

without rhyme or reason

This alternative emphasizes the lack of logic or sense behind the action.

for shits and giggles

A very informal, and sometimes vulgar, alternative emphasizing amusement.

FAQs

What does "for the hell of it" mean?

The phrase "for the hell of it" means doing something without a specific or serious reason, often impulsively or for fun. It implies a lack of planning or a disregard for potential consequences.

What can I say instead of "for the hell of it"?

You can use alternatives like "just because", "for no particular reason", or "for the fun of it" depending on the context.

Is "for the hell of it" appropriate in formal writing?

No, "for the hell of it" is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to use phrases like "without a specific reason" or "simply because".

How do you use "for the hell of it" in a sentence?

You can use it to explain why someone did something without a clear motive. For example, "He decided to dye his hair blue "for the hell of it"."