[Idiom] HAVE A COW. - How Not to Overreact in Stressful Situations
Have a cow.
overreact
Originating from the animated exclamation 'have a cow', often used in classic cartoons, this phrase means to overreact or respond too emotionally. The vivid imagery of 'having a cow' exaggerates the level of the reaction, making it clear that the reaction is more than what the situation warrants. It’s especially applicable in situations where keeping a cool head is more beneficial.
Example Sentences
Don't have a cow, it's just a scratch on the car.
Don't get overly upset, it's just a minor scratch on the car.
She had a cow when she saw her ruined wedding dress.
She got very upset when she saw her ruined wedding dress.
My parents had a cow when they discovered I had failed my exams.
My parents got very upset when they found out I had failed my exams.