What does the idiom "get out of hand" mean?
The phrase get out of hand is often used in English, but what does this idiom mean? When idioms are used in the right situations, they strengthen communication and enrich the language. You can communicate more effectively by learning the meaning of get out of hand.
Meaning of "get out of hand"
Meaning
The phrase “get out of hand” is an idiom which means to become uncontrollable or unruly. It can also refer to a situation which has become chaotic or disorderly. It is often used to refer to a person who is acting in an uncontrolled manner.
Etymology
The origin of the phrase “get out of hand” is unclear but it is thought to have originated in the 16th century. The phrase likely arose from the phrase “to get out of one’s hand,” which was used to describe a situation or person which had become unmanageable or uncontrollable. The phrase “get out of hand” may have originally been used to refer to the literal act of someone taking an object out of someone’s hand, making it unmanageable. Over time, the phrase has become an idiom used to refer to any situation or person which has become uncontrollable.
Usage
The phrase “get out of hand” is typically used in a negative sense when referring to a situation or person. It is often used to describe a negative situation which has become chaotic or out of control. It can also be used to describe a person who is behaving in an unruly or uncontrolled manner. The phrase can also be used to describe a situation which has become overwhelming or unmanageable. It is usually used to suggest that a situation or person must be taken control of, or the consequences could be serious.
Example Sentences
- The kids' party got out of hand when they started throwing cake at each other.
- When the storm started, the waves quickly got out of hand and many boats were damaged.
- The team was doing well until their star player got out of hand and was sent off the field.
- The situation at work has gotten out of hand and it's time for management to step in and take control.
From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms
English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.
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