The Big House (Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

In the context of the American television sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine, "The Big House" is a colloquial term used by the characters, particularly Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg), to refer to prison. It functions as a slang term within the show's universe, similar to how real-world police officers and others might use slang to refer to correctional facilities.

The term's significance in the series stems primarily from Jake's Season 6 storyline. After being framed by Deputy Commissioner Madeline Wuntch (Kyra Sedgwick), Jake and his partner, Charles Boyle (Joe Lo Truglio), are forced to go on the run. Eventually, Jake is arrested and wrongfully convicted, leading to his imprisonment. Much of the early episodes of Season 6 depict Jake's experiences adapting to life in prison. During this period, references to "The Big House" become more frequent and central to the narrative.

The use of the term serves several purposes within the show's comedic framework. It adds a layer of authenticity to the characters' dialogue and reinforces the setting of a police precinct. It also allows for comedic situations and character development, particularly for Jake, as he navigates the challenges of incarceration. The ironic and somewhat lighthearted tone of the phrase contrasts with the serious implications of imprisonment, contributing to the show's blend of humor and heartfelt moments. The characters' familiarity with "The Big House" emphasizes their positions within the criminal justice system, albeit from the law enforcement side.