ʌp ɪn ɑːrmz
Emotions
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- Standing with weapons raised
What does "up in arms" mean?
- Very angry and ready to protest
- Outraged and prepared to take action
Examples
- The community is up in arms about the new development.
- Parents were up in arms over the school's decision.
- The announcement had everyone up in arms.
Origin
From military uprising—taking up arms (weapons) in rebellion. Now means angry protest without violence.
How to use it
Strong expression of collective anger. Often used for public controversies.
Similar expressions
outraged
furious
protesting
indignant
angry
Opposites
calm
accepting
indifferent
at peace
Related idioms
- hang in there
To persevere during difficult times
- lose your temper
To become suddenly angry
- get cold feet
To become nervous or afraid before doing something important
- on top of the world
Feeling extremely happy and successful
- rain on someone's parade
To spoil someone's plans or enthusiasm
- blow off steam
To release pent-up energy or emotion through activity
Use it in a practice answer
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