throwing a tantrum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "throwing a tantrum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone, often a child, is exhibiting extreme emotional behavior, typically involving crying, shouting, or acting out due to frustration or anger. Example: "When he didn't get the toy he wanted, he started throwing a tantrum in the store."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"But I am cute!" he says, throwing a tantrum.

The New York Times - Books

Katniss is essentially a kid throwing a tantrum.

The New York Times - Books

When they hear that, they start throwing a tantrum.

The New York Times - Travel

That's why gay people shouldn't be parents.' It's just another kid throwing a tantrum".

The New York Times

He was in her room, she said matter-of-factly, throwing a tantrum.

The New Yorker

For instance, a toddler throwing a tantrum over a cookie might wail, "I want it.

The New York Times - Health

Has Lewis ever felt like throwing a tantrum, just for the hell of it?

The Guardian - Music

While punk was like a child throwing a tantrum and hip hop was about fierce rhetoric, disco meant escaping reality.

The Economist

He's throwing a tantrum when the movie opens, yelling into his cellphone about his old job and kicking a wall.

The New York Times

"Look at the power and control the child gained by throwing a tantrum," Dr. Ross said instead.

The New York Times

He also learned how to say simple words and phrases, and he was able to walk out of the house without throwing a tantrum.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "throwing a tantrum" to describe childish or irrational behavior. This phrase best describes situations where someone is acting out due to not getting their way.

Common error

Avoid using "throwing a tantrum" to describe serious situations that require more nuanced language. For example, describing a political protest as "throwing a tantrum" can trivialize the issue and undermine the protesters' concerns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "throwing a tantrum" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger sentence to describe someone's behavior. Ludwig confirms it's a standard and accepted phrase in English. The examples demonstrate its use across various contexts to depict emotional outbursts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "throwing a tantrum" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression to describe uncontrolled emotional outbursts, often associated with children or immature behavior. According to Ludwig, the phrase is commonly found in news and media, as well as informal contexts like WikiHow. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and audience when using this phrase, as more formal or nuanced language may be appropriate in certain situations. Alternatives like "having a meltdown" or "losing one's temper" can offer subtle differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having a meltdown

Emphasizes a loss of emotional control, often in a more intense or overwhelming way.

losing one's temper

Focuses on the anger aspect and the inability to control it.

pitching a fit

An informal and slightly old-fashioned way to describe a tantrum.

flying into a rage

Suggests a sudden and intense burst of anger.

raising a ruckus

Highlights the disruptive and noisy nature of the outburst.

making a scene

Focuses on the public display of emotion and the attention it draws.

kicking up a fuss

Implies a minor, often unnecessary, outburst of annoyance.

going ballistic

Indicates an extreme and uncontrolled emotional reaction.

having a conniption fit

An exaggerated and somewhat humorous way to describe a fit of anger or hysteria.

going into hysterics

Suggests uncontrollable emotional excess, often involving crying or laughter.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone is "throwing a tantrum"?

Saying someone is "throwing a tantrum" means they are expressing their anger or frustration in an uncontrolled and often childish way, typically involving shouting, crying, or other disruptive behaviors.

What are some synonyms for "throwing a tantrum"?

Alternatives to "throwing a tantrum" include "having a meltdown", "losing one's temper", or "pitching a fit". The best choice depends on the specific context and the intensity of the behavior.

Is "throwing a tantrum" only used to describe children?

While "throwing a tantrum" is often associated with children, it can also be used to describe adults who are behaving in an immature and uncontrolled manner. However, consider using alternative phrases for adults depending on the context.

How can I avoid "throwing a tantrum" when I'm frustrated?

When feeling frustrated, try to communicate your feelings calmly and rationally. Taking a break, practicing deep breathing, or finding a constructive outlet for your emotions can help prevent throwing a tantrum.