English idiom

throw a wobbly

Register · Informal CEFR C1

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Figurative meaning

to have a sudden angry or distressed outburst and lose self-control

Word picture

A sudden fit is pictured as something unstable and wobbling that a person throws outward.

Example

“Dad threw a wobbly when he discovered that the flight had been canceled again.”

Dictionary details

Component words

throw wobbly

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

throw down the gauntlet

to challenge an opponent openly and defiantly

throw caution to the wind

to act boldly or recklessly without considering the possible consequences

throw it at the wall and see what sticks

to try many ideas quickly, keeping only the ones that work

drive someone up the wall

to make someone feel extremely annoyed or frustrated

sick and tired

extremely annoyed with someone or something and unwilling to tolerate it any longer

add fuel to the fire

To make a bad situation or an argument worse.

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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