go ballistic: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘go ballistic’ mean?
The idiom "go ballistic" means to become extremely angry or to lose control of one's emotions in a very intense and explosive manner.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "hopping mad" means to be extremely angry or furious about something.
The idiom "hopping mad" is a common expression used in colloquial English to describe someone who is extremely angry or furious. The origin of this idiom is not perfectly clear, but it has been in use since at least the early 19th century.
The idiom "hit the roof" means to become very angry or furious about something.
In the realm of idiomatic expressions, the phrase “hit the roof” is a colloquial way to describe a sudden outburst or extreme anger. Its exact origins and historical usage are uncertain, but it has become a popular phrase in contemporary English.
The idiom "have a fit" means to become extremely angry, upset, or emotional about something.
The idiom "have a fit" is used to describe an extreme and exaggerated reaction to something, usually in a negative or angry way. It implies a sudden outburst of emotions or a strong physical response to a situation or event. The idiom is often used to express strong disapproval, frustration, or outrage.
The idiom "go wild" means to become extremely excited or enthusiastic, often losing control of one's behavior or actions.
The idiom "go overboard" means to go to great or excessive lengths, often beyond what is necessary or reasonable. It implies an extreme or exaggerated action or behavior, often resulting from enthusiasm or excitement.
The idiom "go off at score" means to become very angry or upset about something.
The idiom "go batshit" means to become extremely angry or lose control in a crazy or irrational way.
The idiom "go bananas" means to become extremely excited, agitated, or irrational. It is often used to describe someone losing control of their emotions or behaving in a wild and unpredictable manner.
The idiom "full tilt boogie" means to go at maximum speed or effort, often used to describe a situation or activity that is intense, fast-paced, or energetic.
The idiom *flip out* means to suddenly become extremely angry, upset or excited about something. It often implies an exaggerated or over-the-top reaction to a situation.
Exploding Emotions
Go ballistic is an idiom that has gained popularity in American English. It is used to describe a person becoming extremely angry or irate. The idiom is widely understood and used by English speakers across the United States.
One unique aspect of the idiom go ballistic is its metaphorical nature. By combining the verb "go" with the adjective "ballistic," this idiom creates a vivid image. The term "ballistic" in this context is derived from its association with missiles and other projectiles. Just as a missile becomes uncontrollable and unpredictable when it goes ballistic, a person who "goes ballistic" is believed to lose control over their emotions.
The idiom go ballistic is often used to describe a sudden and explosive outburst of anger or frustration. It indicates a state where an individual reaches their breaking point and is overcome by intense emotions. When someone goes ballistic, they may shout, scream, or act in an unpredictable and aggressive manner.
The popularity of the idiom go ballistic can be attributed to its versatility and relatability. It has permeated various aspects of American culture, including literature, film, and everyday conversations. The idiom is frequently used in news headlines to describe politicians' or celebrities' fierce reactions to a controversial event or statement.
Furthermore, the idiom go ballistic has become firmly entrenched in American slang, commonly used in colloquial speech. It adds a touch of vividness and exaggeration to everyday language, allowing individuals to express their emotions in a more emphatic manner.
Similar idiomatic expressions include "go batshit," "go bananas," and "go wild." These idioms all convey a sense of losing control and behaving in an unpredictable and explosive manner. They are used colloquially to describe someone becoming extremely angry or irate.
Another related idiom is "hit the roof." This idiom is used to describe a person's extreme reaction to something, similar to someone who goes ballistic. It emphasizes the idea of reaching a breaking point and reacting strongly.
The idiom "boil up" is also related to go ballistic. It describes a gradual build-up of anger or frustration that eventually reaches a boiling point. When someone "boils up," they may eventually explode in a way similar to someone who goes ballistic.
While the origins of the idiom go ballistic are uncertain, its popularity and widespread usage have solidified its place in the English lexicon. The metaphorical link between losing control and ballistic missiles contributes to its enduring appeal. The phrase continues to be used in everyday conversations and is readily understood by English speakers across the United States.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom go ballistic can be used in a sentence:
- When the teacher caught Johnny cheating on the test, he went ballistic and started yelling at the whole class.
- After waiting for hours at the airport, the frustrated passengers went ballistic when they discovered their flight was canceled.
- When the referee made a controversial call, the soccer fans went ballistic and began throwing objects onto the field.
More "Emotions" idioms
