Up in arms

Meaning

"Up in arms" is an idiom that means people are extremely angry or upset about something. It can also mean that someone is very concerned or passionate about a particular issue.

Usage

• The community was up in arms over the proposed development project that would destroy their local park.
• When I found out my boss had given my promotion to someone else, I was up in arms.
• The political debate is heating up as more people get up in arms about the new immigration policies.
• After the news of the shooting, the community came together and was up in arms to demand justice for the victim.
• She's always up in arms about social justice issues, but her passion doesn't translate into action.

Roots and History

The idiom "up in arms" dates back to the 17th century and is believed to have originated from the idea of someone raising their arms high in anger or frustration. Over time, it has come to be used more generally to describe any extreme emotional response, including concern or passion.

Synonyms in English

• Blown a fuse
• At the end of one's tether
• Over the moon
• Livid

Synonyms in other languages

• En colère (French) - literally translates to "in anger"
• Resignado (Spanish) - translates to "resigned" or "resigned to fate"
• Aufgebracht (German) - translates to "agitated" or "stirred up"

Similar Idioms

• the brains behind

• in the bad books

• keep your hair on