Scream blue murder

usgb
verb phrase

To make a loud complaint or protest about something.

He screamed blue murder when he saw the amount deducted from his pay slip.
Visual representation of "scream blue murder" - To make a loud complaint or protest about something

Often appears as...

  • scream blue murder about
  • scream blue murder over

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "scream blue murder"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Loud Complaint

Used to describe someone protesting very passionately or loudly.

Illustration for Loud Complaint
She screamed blue murder about the unfair treatment at work.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Exaggeration

The phrase often conveys that someone is overreacting or being dramatic.

Illustration for Exaggeration
He screamed blue murder over a tiny scratch on his car.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Strong Emotion

Indicates that the person's reaction is driven by strong emotions.

Illustration for Strong Emotion
She was screaming blue murder when she found out her show was cancelled.
Visual representation of the word "Scream blue murder"

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