Bee in bonnet

Meaning

The idiom "bee in bonnet" refers to someone who is overly agitated or upset about something, often to the point of obsession. This person may be fixated on a particular issue and unwilling to listen to other perspectives or reason with others. The term is sometimes used to describe a person who is overly critical or negative.

Usage

• "She's like a bee in a bonnet about the new office policies." - This sentence suggests that the person mentioned is extremely agitated and upset about the new policies, and their behavior is becoming increasingly irrational.
• "He has been a bee in a bonnet since he found out his favorite TV show was canceled." - In this sentence, the person's obsession with their favorite TV show has led them to become overly agitated and upset.
• "The boss is like a bee in a bonnet when it comes to deadlines." - This sentence suggests that the boss is extremely focused on meeting deadlines and may become overly agitated if anyone falls behind.
• "She has been a bee in a bonnet about the new employee since they started working here last week." - In this sentence, the person mentioned has become extremely critical of the new employee and is behaving in an irrational manner.
• "He's like a bee in a bonnet when it comes to cleanliness." - This sentence suggests that the person is extremely focused on maintaining a clean environment and may become overly agitated if anything falls short of their expectations.

Roots and History

The idiom "bee in a bonnet" dates back to the early 19th century and is believed to have originated in England. The phrase likely refers to the behavior of bees, which are known for their buzzing and frenzied activity when they are searching for food or protecting their hives. Over time, the idiom has come to be used more metaphorically to describe someone who is overly agitated or upset about something.

Synonyms in English

• "A fly in the ointment" - This idiom refers to someone who ruins a situation by introducing an unwanted element or distraction.
• "A thorn in one's side" - This idiom refers to someone who constantly causes annoyance or pain.
• "A monkey wrench" - This idiom refers to something that disrupts or complicates a situation.
• "A snag in plans" - This idiom refers to an unexpected obstacle that can derail a plan or project.
• "A hiccup" - This idiom refers to a sudden and unexplained disruption or problem.

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish - "Un ruido en el agua" - This idiom refers to a sudden and unexpected disturbance that occurs when something falls into the water.
• French - "Un trouble parfaitement inconfortable" - This idiom refers to an uncomfortable situation or discomfort that is difficult to remedy.
• German - "Ein unvorstellbarer Unfall" - This idiom refers to a sudden and unexpected accident or disaster.
• Italian - "Un incidente inaspettato" - This idiom refers to an unexpected event that disrupts normal routines or plans.
• Portuguese - "Um acidente inesperado" - This idiom refers to a sudden and unexpected accident or disaster that occurs despite precautions.

Similar Idioms

• blank check

• burst the bubble

• beat a dead horse