tired and emotional

The idiom "tired and emotional" originated in British English and is commonly used to describe someone who is visibly inebriated or overly emotional due to intoxication.

When someone is "in one's cups," they are experiencing the effects of alcohol. This idiom is often used synonymously with "tired and emotional" to describe someone who is visibly intoxicated and exhibiting behavior that may be considered inappropriate or unrestrained.

Similarly, when someone is "in a right state," it means they are in a state of extreme emotional distress or agitation. This idiom can be used interchangeably with "tired and emotional" to convey that someone is not only intoxicated but also experiencing heightened emotional sensitivity.

To further emphasize someone's exhaustion, the expression "dog-tired" can be added. This idiom highlights extreme fatigue and can be used alongside "tired and emotional" to describe someone who is not only intoxicated but also physically drained and emotionally overwhelmed.

It is worth noting that "tired and emotional" is an idiom with a strong cultural connection to British English. However, it has also gained recognition in American English, albeit to a lesser extent.

The origins of this idiom are unclear, but it gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in British newspapers and literature. It was often used in comic and satirical contexts, mocking the behavior of the upper class and their perceived excessive indulgence.

The idiom's association with intoxication and emotional expression provides insight into societal attitudes towards these phenomena. It allows for a wide range of interpretation and contextual usage, making it a versatile linguistic tool in both formal and informal settings.