kick up a fuss: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘kick up a fuss’ mean?
The idiom kick up a fuss means to protest or complain noisily and aggressively.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "kick upstairs" means to promote someone to a position of higher authority or responsibility, often as a way to remove them from their current role or to avoid dealing with a difficult situation.
The idiom "kick up one's heels" means to relax, have fun, or engage in lively enjoyment and uninhibited behavior.
The idiom "kick up one's heels" is a colorful expression used to describe someone engaging in exuberant and carefree behavior. The phrase is commonly used to convey a sense of joyful abandon, often associated with dancing or celebrating.
The idiom "kick to the curb" means to reject or dismiss someone or something, usually in a harsh or abrupt manner.
The idiom "kick to the curb" is a common expression in American English, used primarily in colloquial speech. It is a figurative phrase that conveys the act of rejecting or dismissing someone or something in a forceful and definitive manner.
The idiom "kick out" means to forcefully make someone leave or expel them from a place or a group, often due to misbehavior or non-compliance with rules.
The idiom "kick one's heels" means to wait idly or impatiently for something or someone without any purpose or result.
The idiom "kick off" means to start or begin something, often forcefully or enthusiastically. It can also refer to the moment a game or event begins.
The idiom "kick off" has several meanings and uses in the English language.
The idiom "kick loose" means to break free or detach from a situation or person. It implies a desire for independence and liberation.
The idiom "kick it" means to relax, have fun, or spend time casually with friends or acquaintances. It often implies a laid-back and informal atmosphere, where one can enjoy themselves without any specific agenda or responsibilities.
The idiom "kick into touch" means to deliberately avoid dealing with something or to delay a decision or action. It is often used in contexts where someone is trying to avoid taking responsibility or facing a difficult or unpleasant situation.
Chaos Unleashed
Kick up a fuss is an idiomatic phrase commonly used in the English language. It is derived from the literal meaning of the words 'kick,' which refers to forcefully striking something with the foot, and 'fuss,' meaning a state of agitation, excitement, or display of dissatisfaction. As an idiom, 'kick up a fuss' does not retain its literal meaning but instead conveys a figurative sense.
The idiom 'kick up a fuss' is often used to describe a situation where someone reacts strongly or protests vehemently about a particular issue or event. When an individual 'kicks up a fuss,' they are expressing their discontent, dissatisfaction, or displeasure in a vocal and forceful manner. This expression implies a sense of agitation, annoyance, or even anger, as the person is making a visible and audible protest.
When someone 'kicks up a fuss,' it indicates their unwillingness to remain silent or accept a situation passively. They are actively drawing attention to the matter and seeking redress or resolution. This idiom emphasizes the idea of creating a commotion or disturbance, often in an attempt to bring about change or draw attention to an injustice.
The idiom 'kicking and screaming' is closely related to 'kick up a fuss.' It is similar in that it describes a strong and vocal reaction to an unfavorable situation. However, 'kicking and screaming' carries the additional connotation of throwing a tantrum or being particularly resistant to change. While 'kick up a fuss' focuses on the act of protest, 'kicking and screaming' highlights the emotional aspect and the unwillingness to comply.
'kick up one's heels' is another idiom related to 'kick up a fuss.' While 'kick up a fuss' denotes a protest or complaint, 'kick up one's heels' has a more positive association. It is often used to describe moments of celebration, relaxation, or letting loose. The phrase 'kick up one's heels' suggests a carefree and joyful attitude, in contrast to the agitation and discontent conveyed by 'kick up a fuss.'
'kick out' is an idiom that shares a similar structure with 'kick up a fuss' but carries a different meaning. While 'kick up a fuss' describes a vocal protest or outcry, 'kick out' refers to the act of forcibly removing someone or something from a place or position. It can be used in various contexts, such as kicking out a roommate or kicking out a team member. Though the structure is similar, 'kick out' and 'kick up a fuss' convey distinct actions and outcomes.
The origins of the idiom 'kick up a fuss' can be traced back to the early 19th century, where the term 'kick up' was already in use, meaning to create a disturbance or uproar. The addition of 'a fuss' intensifies the sense of agitation and draws attention to the speaker's displeasure. The idiomatic usage of this phrase gained popularity over time, becoming a commonly understood way to describe acts of vocal protest or strong reaction.
By examining the individual words within the idiom, we can gain a deeper understanding of its meaning. 'Kick' implies a forceful action, while 'up' adds the notion of intensity or escalation. This combination denotes a sudden and forceful reaction. On the other hand, 'a fuss' refers to the outward display of discontent or displeasure. Together, these words create an idiom that vividly captures the notion of venting frustration or dissatisfaction in a visible and vocal manner.
The idiom 'kick up a fuss' has become ingrained in the English language, finding usage in a range of contexts. It is frequently employed in scenarios where someone expresses strong opposition, shows their dissatisfaction, or raises objections about an issue, event, or decision. Whether in personal relationships, social matters, or public affairs, this idiom is a powerful way to describe an individual's active pursuit of resolution or change.
To conclude, 'kick up a fuss' is a widely used idiom in the English language that describes an individual's act of forcefully expressing their discontent or dissatisfaction about a particular issue or event. This idiomatic phrase has its roots in the early 19th century and has since become a staple in conveying the idea of vocal protest and seeking resolution. Through its figurative meaning, 'kick up a fuss' encapsulates the passion, intensity, and determination displayed by those who refuse to remain silent and strive for change.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom kick up a fuss can be used in a sentence:
- She kicked up a fuss at the restaurant when they forgot her order.
- The children kicked up a fuss when they were told they couldn't go to the amusement park.
- He kicked up a fuss with the airline over the lost luggage.
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