lose your temper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lose your temper" is a commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to express getting angry or frustrated to the point of losing control. For example: "When John didn't get the job, he totally lost his temper and started yelling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't lose your temper.

Harvard University

Do you lose your temper quickly?

The New York Times

She can make you lose your temper.

The New York Times

Instead, take a break before you lose your temper.

Harvard University

Do you ever lose your temper on the course?

The New York Times - Magazine

It's not pretty when you lose your temper.

The Guardian

Identify situations that cause you to lose your temper.

Harvard Business Review

Don't lose your temper; don't respond to provocation.

Harvard Business Review

How not to panic or lose your temper.

The Guardian

Lose your temper.

BBC

How often did you lose your temper?

Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Practice techniques such as deep breathing or counting to ten to help regain control when you feel yourself about to "lose your temper".

Common error

Avoid using "losing your temper" as an excuse for personal attacks. While anger is a valid emotion, it doesn't justify directing harmful words or actions towards others.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lose your temper" functions as a verb phrase expressing the action of becoming uncontrollably angry. It describes a state of emotional dysregulation, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

40%

News & Media

39%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lose your temper" is a common expression for becoming uncontrollably angry. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use. While experiencing anger is a normal human emotion, it's generally advisable to avoid "losing your temper". Strategies for managing anger and alternative expressions for describing anger are useful in maintaining healthy communication and relationships. Examples from Ludwig show the phrase in various contexts, from news reports to self-help articles, underscoring its broad applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blow a fuse

This idiom implies a sudden and uncontrolled outburst of anger.

go ballistic

This suggests an extreme and often disproportionate reaction of anger.

fly into a rage

This alternative suggests a sudden and intense outburst of anger.

see red

An idiom for becoming extremely angry, often impulsively.

become furious

Similar to "enraged", but can also imply a more sudden onset of anger.

hit the roof

This implies expressing extreme anger or frustration in an uncontrolled manner.

become enraged

This implies a state of extreme anger, often building up over time.

boil over

This suggests that anger has been simmering and finally reaches a breaking point.

get angry

This is a general term for experiencing anger, less intense than "lose your temper".

flip out

An informal term for losing control due to anger or stress.

FAQs

What does it mean to "lose your temper"?

To "lose your temper" means to become angry to the point where you can no longer control your emotions or behavior. It often involves yelling, saying hurtful things, or acting impulsively.

What are some strategies to avoid "losing your temper"?

Strategies include practicing mindfulness, taking deep breaths, removing yourself from the situation, and identifying triggers that lead to anger. Consider seeking professional help if anger is a persistent problem.

Is it ever acceptable to "lose your temper"?

While experiencing anger is a normal human emotion, "losing your temper" is rarely the most constructive way to handle a situation. Aim for assertive communication rather than uncontrolled outbursts. Alternatives include "remaining calm", "expressing your feelings" constructively, or "taking a break" to cool down.

What's the difference between "getting angry" and "losing your temper"?

"Getting angry" is a normal emotional response to frustration or injustice. "Losing your temper" implies a loss of control over your anger, often resulting in destructive behavior. You can be angry without "losing your temper".