Have/throw a fit
verb phrase
To become very angry and lose control of oneself.
She will have a fit when she finds out that her vase is broken.
Often appears as...
- have a fit of rage
- throw a fit at someone
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
verb phrase
To have a sudden attack or convulsion, such as epilepsy.
He forgot to take his medication and had a fit.
Often appears as...
- have an epileptic fit
- have a fit in public
Usage tips
Disapproving
verb phrase
To become very angry and lose control of oneself.
She will have a fit when she finds out that her vase is broken.
Often appears as...
- have a fit of rage
- throw a fit at someone
Usage tips
Informal
Colloquial
verb phrase
To have a sudden attack or convulsion, such as epilepsy.
He forgot to take his medication and had a fit.
Often appears as...
- have an epileptic fit
- have a fit in public
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Use
The phrase is informal and typically used in casual conversation, not formal writing.
My mom's going to have a fit if she sees this mess!
Pro Tip 2/3Exaggeration
Often used to exaggerate emotions for effect, may not mean literal loss of control.
Dad will have a fit when he hears you borrowed his car without asking.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Nuance
Considered childish or unprofessional; adults 'having a fit' can be viewed negatively.
He's too grown-up to throw a fit over a video game.
Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Use
The phrase is informal and typically used in casual conversation, not formal writing.
My mom's going to have a fit if she sees this mess!
Pro Tip 2/3Exaggeration
Often used to exaggerate emotions for effect, may not mean literal loss of control.
Dad will have a fit when he hears you borrowed his car without asking.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Nuance
Considered childish or unprofessional; adults 'having a fit' can be viewed negatively.
He's too grown-up to throw a fit over a video game.
Pro Tip 1/3Colloquial Use
The phrase is informal and typically used in casual conversation, not formal writing.
My mom's going to have a fit if she sees this mess!
Pro Tip 2/3Exaggeration
Often used to exaggerate emotions for effect, may not mean literal loss of control.
Dad will have a fit when he hears you borrowed his car without asking.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Nuance
Considered childish or unprofessional; adults 'having a fit' can be viewed negatively.
He's too grown-up to throw a fit over a video game.
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