[Idiom] FLY OFF THE HANDLE. - Learn How to Calm Your Temper with English Expressions
Fly off the handle.
/flaɪ ɒf ðə ˈhændəl/
To lose one’s temper suddenly.
Flying off the handle" is a vivid image of someone's axe head coming off the handle during an aggressive swing, indicating a loss of control and sudden anger. Originally observed in scenarios where tools were used carelessly, this idiom has now come to generally describe anyone who loses their temper abruptly and unexpectedly.
Example Sentences
My boss might fly off the handle if he sees this mistake.
The boss is likely to become very angry if he discovers the error.
When she heard the bad news, she flew off the handle.
Upon receiving unfortunate news, she reacted with intense anger.
It's not like him to fly off the handle over such small issues.
It is unusual for him to lose his temper over trivial matters.