Go ballistic

usgb
verb phrase

To get very angry quickly and intensely.

When she saw the mess we made, she went ballistic.
Visual representation of "go ballistic" - To get very angry quickly and intensely

Often appears as...

  • go ballistic over something
  • go ballistic at someone

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "go ballistic"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Anger Intensity

Used when someone is extremely angry, not just slightly upset.

Illustration for Anger Intensity
My dad went ballistic when I crashed the car.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Sudden Reaction

The phrase suggests a sudden and extreme reaction to something unexpected.

Illustration for Sudden Reaction
I went ballistic when I got hit with the surprise fees.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Context

It's informal, so use it in casual conversation, not in formal writing or speeches.

Illustration for Informal Context
He'll go ballistic if he finds out you lost his keys.
Visual representation of the word "Go ballistic"

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