throw a tantrum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'throw a tantrum' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a display of anger or frustration, usually by a child or other person who is not in complete control of their emotions. For example: "The toddler threw a tantrum when I tried to take away his toy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Throw a tantrum.

The Guardian

Or why not throw a tantrum?

The New York Times - Books

And if they don't, you can throw a tantrum.

The Guardian - Travel

"So I would throw a tantrum and get an attitude.

The New York Times

And throw a tantrum like he is three years old?" West's critique didn't end there.

The New Yorker

Having been treated like children, they might even throw a tantrum.

The New York Times

It's harder to throw a tantrum at work and not face consequences.

The New Yorker

And surely every baby needs gold cowboy boots to throw a tantrum in ($39).

The New Yorker

It was hard for anyone to throw a tantrum over a dropped pass.

The New York Times - Sports

Without the new hall, Rattle would throw a tantrum and then we'd be sorry.

The Guardian - Opinion

And he had ample reason to throw a tantrum: he was treated abominably.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an adult's behavior, consider the appropriateness of the phrase "throw a tantrum". While technically correct, it can sound infantilizing. Opt for stronger terms like "fly into a rage" or "lose their temper" if the situation warrants it.

Common error

Avoid using "throw a tantrum" in formal or professional writing. It's generally too informal and can undermine your credibility. Choose more neutral or professional alternatives, depending on the intensity, such as "express dissatisfaction", "voice objections", or "become agitated".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "throw a tantrum" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate to describe an action. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Examples in Ludwig show it describing both children and adults, although its use with adults can be seen as pejorative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

33%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "throw a tantrum" is a commonly used verb phrase that describes an uncontrolled display of anger or frustration. Ludwig AI validates the correctness of the phrase. While grammatically sound, its informality should be considered when writing, especially in professional or academic contexts, where more neutral alternatives might be preferred. The phrase is frequently found in news articles and general online content, but less so in formal business or scientific publications. When you want to describe someone displaying anger or childish behaviour use "throw a tantrum", be sure to evaluate the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a fit

This alternative suggests a sudden outburst of anger or distress, similar to "throw a tantrum" but can apply to a broader range of situations.

lose one's temper

Focuses more on the loss of control rather than the specific display of emotion.

fly into a rage

Implies a more intense and uncontrolled anger than "throw a tantrum".

blow a gasket

An idiom suggesting a sudden and forceful release of anger or frustration.

go ballistic

Similar to "fly into a rage", indicating extreme anger and loss of control.

make a scene

Emphasizes the public display of emotion, often negative, drawing attention to oneself.

get worked up

Suggests an increasing level of agitation and emotional arousal.

kick up a fuss

Implies a protest or complaint, often exaggerated or unnecessary.

rant and rave

Highlights the verbal expression of anger and dissatisfaction.

get in a huff

Suggests a state of annoyance or sulking, often temporary.

FAQs

How can I use "throw a tantrum" in a sentence?

You can use "throw a tantrum" to describe someone expressing anger or frustration, often in an uncontrolled way. For example, "The child "threw a tantrum" when his parents refused to buy him a toy."

What's a less informal way to say "throw a tantrum"?

For less informal options, consider phrases like "lose one's temper", "fly into a rage", or "become agitated", depending on the context and level of formality required.

Is it appropriate to say an adult "threw a tantrum"?

While technically correct, describing an adult as "throwing a tantrum" can sound dismissive or infantilizing. Choose stronger or more nuanced language to accurately reflect the situation, such as "express dissatisfaction" or "voice objections".

What's the difference between "throw a tantrum" and "make a scene"?

"Throw a tantrum" specifically implies an outburst of anger or frustration, while "make a scene" focuses on the public disruption caused by the emotional display. You can "throw a tantrum" without necessarily making a scene, and vice versa.