😡 Hot Under the Collar: When Tempers Flare🚀
Definition:
Hot under the collar, to be - To be upset, agitated, or angry. The expression draws on the physical sensation of heat that often accompanies anger, like a fiery neck and face. Though originating in the late 19th century, it remains vivid in today’s language.
Related Terms and Synonyms:
- Seeing red: Overwhelmed by anger.
- Blowing a gasket: Losing one’s temper.
- Steamed up: Very angry; agitated.
- Losing one’s cool: Unable to maintain composure.
Antonyms:
- Cool as a cucumber: Completely calm and composed.
- Unflappable: Not easily upset.
- Mellow: Relaxed and easygoing.
Witty, Humorous Quotes:
“A good marriage would be between a blind wife and a deaf husband.” - Michel de Montaigne
Note: Whether you’re married or not, figurative speech about losing one’s temper has been humorously exaggerated throughout history.
Proverbs and Similar Expressions:
- Proverb: “He who angers you conquers you.”
- Chinese Proverb: “If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow.”
- Related Idioms: “Blinded by rage,” “On the warpath,” “Hot-tempered.”
Literary References and Suggested Reads:
- Book: Anger: Wisdom for Cooling the Flames by Thich Nhat Hanh – A guide to managing anger through mindfulness and compassion.
- Book: O. Henry: The Complete Works – Dive into O. Henry’s entertaining stories, including “The Sphinx Apple” featuring a clever twist on the idiom.
- Literature: Consider Shakespeare’s fiery characters who often get “hot under the collar” – namely Tybalt from Romeo and Juliet, or King Lear.
- Poem: “A Poison Tree” by William Blake – A poetic portrayal of unexpressed anger leading to more malevolent outcomes.
Songs and Movies:
- Song: “You Give Love a Bad Name” by Bon Jovi – A rock anthem full of fervent emotion.
- Song: “Not Afraid” by Eminem – Capturing intense, rebellious spirit.
- Movie: Falling Down – A man’s descent into rage and frustration beautifully showcased by Michael Douglas.
- Comedy: Anger Management – Hilarity ensues when Adam Sandler tries to cope with his inner rage under the guidance of Jack Nicholson.
### Which of these means getting very angry?
- [x] Hot under the collar
- [ ] Chilly under the cuffs
- [ ] Cool in the catwalk
- [ ] Warm by the window
> **Explanation:** The idiom "hot under the collar" denotes being very upset or angry, possibly leading one's face and neck to feel hot.
### True or False: 'Cool as a cucumber' means extremely angry.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** "Cool as a cucumber" means staying completely calm and composed, the opposite of "hot under the collar."
### Which expression refers to managing anger with patience?
- [x] If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow.
- [ ] He who angers you conquers you.
- [ ] You can't see the wood for the trees.
- [ ] Every cloud has a silver lining.
> **Explanation:** The Chinese proverb, "If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow," is about managing anger with patience.
### What is the figurative meaning of "seeing red"?
- [ ] Feeling very cold
- [x] Being extremely angry
- [ ] Feeling embarrassed
- [ ] Being very happy
> **Explanation:** "Seeing red" means being extremely angry, identical to being "hot under the collar."
Find wisdom in words, let the fire of your anger illuminate realization, and stay as cool as the crisp winter breeze. Until next idiom! - Lexie Expressions
