The phase of time before a predicted apocalypse when people don't spend any money or bother to do much, just in case there really is an apocalypse.
Mum: I'm just going to go out shopping. I'll be back in a few minutes.
Kid: Don't bother, there's an apocalypse due on Friday. You can shop on Saturday
Mum: But i need to get the Christmas chicken
Kid: SATURDAY

(Day after apocalypse)

Kid: Ok you can go now
Mum: Finally!
Dad: Don't blame him. It was just the Pre-Apocalyptic Phase. Don't want that money to go to waste!
by anonfromhell December 20, 2012
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