Fly off the handle

usgb
phrase

To suddenly become very angry.

He flies off the handle at the slightest criticism.
Visual representation of "fly off the handle" - To suddenly become very angry

Often appears as...

  • fly off the handle at something
  • fly off the handle for no reason

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "fly off the handle"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Intensity

The phrase suggests a sudden shift to extreme anger, typically in an uncontrolled manner.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
The calm discussion took a turn when Mike flew off the handle.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Surprise Element

The anger is often unexpected and may seem disproportionate to the situation.

Illustration for Surprise Element
She flew off the handle when she saw the typo, which surprised everyone.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Negative Connotation

Using this phrase usually implies a criticism of the person's reaction as being unreasonable.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
His tendency to fly off the handle made his colleagues wary of giving feedback.
Visual representation of the word "Fly off the handle"

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