become hysterical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become hysterical" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a situation where someone is overwhelmed with emotion, often to the point of losing control. Example: "When she heard the news, she began to become hysterical." Alternative expressions include "lose control" and "break down."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Even the Chinese recounting of history has become hysterical.

The New York Times

The message: People should take precautions to avoid contracting the disease, but they shouldn't become hysterical.

The New Yorker

"I don't become hysterical, but I'm angry with the whole world".

The New York Times

We saw Western commentators become hysterical whenever the subject of Islam came up.

The New Yorker

Therefore we also refuse to participate with this fear and refuse to become hysterical.

The Guardian

(The victims' mothers become hysterical during the hearing when the tape is run).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

I became hysterical.

The New Yorker

We became hysterical.

The Guardian - Music

The laughter becomes hysterical.

The New Yorker

At this she becomes hysterical.

The Guardian

Their laughter soon becomes hysterical.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use this phrase to describe instances where an individual's emotional response is visibly and audibly overwhelming, and consider if a more nuanced descriptor better captures the specific emotion at play.

Common error

Avoid using "become hysterical" to describe mild emotional reactions like being slightly upset or anxious. This phrase suggests a significant loss of control, so using it inappropriately can exaggerate the situation and sound insensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become hysterical" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a change of state into a condition of extreme emotional agitation. It describes the process of someone losing control and becoming overwhelmed by their emotions. The Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this use.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become hysterical" effectively conveys a state of extreme emotional agitation and loss of control. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and acceptability. It is commonly found in News & Media, with various alternatives like "lose control" or "break down" offering nuanced ways to express similar meanings. When using this phrase, consider the intensity of the situation to ensure it accurately reflects the emotional state without overstatement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

descend into hysteria

This alternative explicitly uses the word "hysteria" emphasizing a gradual shift into that state.

break down

This alternative highlights the emotional collapse or inability to cope.

lose control

This alternative is more general, referring to a loss of self-control rather than specifically emotional excess. It's broader in scope.

fall apart

This alternative emphasizes a breakdown of composure and emotional stability.

become frantic

This alternative suggests a state of desperation and hurried, disorganized behavior.

go crazy

This alternative is more informal and suggests a wild or irrational state.

get overwrought

This alternative suggests a state of being excessively agitated or excited.

panic

This alternative focuses on sudden, overwhelming fear and anxiety.

freak out

This alternative is a more informal term for experiencing extreme anxiety or agitation.

get agitated

This alternative is less intense, indicating a state of heightened unease or restlessness.

FAQs

How can I use "become hysterical" in a sentence?

You can use "become hysterical" to describe someone who loses control of their emotions, often due to extreme fear, grief, or excitement. For example, "The crowd "became hysterical" when their team won the championship".

What can I say instead of "become hysterical"?

You can use alternatives like "lose control", "break down", or "panic" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "become hysterical" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "become hysterical" can sound dramatic. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "lose control" or "experience overwhelming emotion" for a more neutral tone.

What's the difference between "become hysterical" and "get anxious"?

"Become hysterical" describes a state of extreme emotional agitation and loss of control, while "get anxious" refers to a state of worry or unease. "Become hysterical" is a much stronger and more intense expression.