fly off the handle

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition

Verb (idiom): - To lose one's temper suddenly and explosively: To become extremely angry in an uncontrolled, often brief, outburst.

Usage

This idiom describes a sudden, often unexpected, eruption of anger. It implies a loss of self-control and a reaction that is disproportionate or immediate. - It is used informally. - It often describes a reaction to a specific, triggering event.

Examples
Advanced Usage
  • The idiom can be modified with adverbs to describe the manner of the outburst.
    • She flew completely off the handle during the meeting.
  • It is often used in a critical or cautionary tone, suggesting the anger was an overreaction.
Variants and Related Words
  • Blow a fuse / Blow one's top / Hit the roof / Lose one's cool: Other informal idioms with a very similar meaning of suddenly becoming very angry.
  • Rage (n/v): A violent, uncontrollable anger. (e.g., )
  • Erupt (v): To burst out suddenly and violently. Often used metaphorically for anger. (e.g., )
Synonyms
  • Explode
  • Go ballistic
  • Flip one's lid
  • Have a fit
Antonyms
  • Keep one's cool
  • Remain calm
  • Stay composed
Related Idioms
  • Go off the deep end: To act in an extreme or irrational way, which can include sudden anger.
    • He really went off the deep end when he heard the news.
  • See red: To become very angry suddenly.
    • When he insulted her family, she saw red.
Verb
  1. get very angry and fly into a rage
    • The professor combusted when the student didn't know the answer to a very elementary question
    • Spam makes me go ballistic