💣 Up in Arms: Unraveling the Rebellion of Clichés 🚀
Background
“Up in arms” started as a literal phrase, expected of soldiers raising their weapons. By the end of the seventeenth century, it evolved topically to signify any form of discontent or anger. The first notable literary use appeared in Jonathan Swift’s writings in 1704.
Definitions:
- Up in Arms: Openly rebellious or strongly displeased.
- Synonyms: Incensed, infuriated, outraged, would-be mutineers.
- Antonyms: Content, indifferent, conciliatory.
Related Terms and Phrases:
- Raise Cain: To cause trouble or create a commotion.
- See red: To become very angry.
- Hot under the collar: Agitated or emotionally distressed about something.
- Blow a fuse: To lose one’s temper suddenly.
- Rebel with a cause: To engage in some form of protest or resistance.
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “When life got overly demanding, even the zen-like yogis went up in arms. No exceptions!”
- “Trying to calm her down once she’s up in arms is like trying to tell a river to stop flowing.”
Proverbs and References:
- Proverb: “In the flush of anger, the brain cells go up in arms.”
- Literature: Jonathan Swift’s The Battle of the Books (1704) provides a perfect classic reference.
- Songs: Bob Marley’s Get Up, Stand Up is a beautifully rebellious anthem.
- Movies: Les Misérables, the ultimate portrayal of being up in arms; plus, that music though – magnifique!
Inspirational Thought:
Next time tempers flare and cheeks turn red, remember, even while up in arms, keep a smile in your arsenal, because laughter is often the best diplomat.
### Which idiom means "to become very angry"?
- [x] See red
- [ ] Whisper blue
- [ ] Paint green
- [ ] Hear purple
> **Explanation:** "See red" means to become very angry, conjuring the image of fury.
### True or False: Jonathan Swift coined the phrase “up in arms.”
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** While Jonathan Swift used the phrase, it was already in use by that time. He popularized its lasting figurative use.
### What can be a synonym for being very angry?
- [ ] Sitting pretty
- [x] Hot under the collar
- [ ] Cool as a cucumber
- [ ] Happy as a clam
> **Explanation:** "Hot under the collar" is an idiom signifying agitation and anger.
Farewell Thought:
Remember, even in moments of discord, where people may be collectively “up in arms,” there’s always a path to understanding. Words, wielded with respect and kindness, remain our most enchanting weapons.
- 📚 Eleanor Lingword
