Hot under the collar

usgb
adjective

Getting angry or upset.

When she was accused of lying, she got hot under the collar
Visual representation of "hot under the collar" - Getting angry or upset

Often appears as...

  • getting hot under the collar
  • remain hot under the collar

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hot under the collar"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Intensity

Indicates strong emotional response, often anger or frustration, rather than mild irritation.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
She got hot under the collar after being cut off in traffic.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Expression

Used in casual conversation. May not be appropriate in formal or professional settings.

Illustration for Informal Expression
Joe got hot under the collar during the casual debate at the lunch table.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conflict Situations

Often used when describing situations where there's disagreement or argument.

Illustration for Conflict Situations
The manager went hot under the collar when the employee talked back.
Visual representation of the word "Hot under the collar"

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