go ballistic
Meaning
To suddenly become extremely angry and react explosively; to lose one’s temper.
Origin
From “ballistic missile,” which follows a ballistic (projectile-like) trajectory; the idiom (popular from mid–late 20th century) likens someone’s anger to a missile suddenly launching or flying out of control.
Notes
Strong, informal phrase meaning an explosive loss of temper; implies an overreaction or very intense anger. Best in casual speech, not formal writing.
Examples
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My dad went ballistic when he saw the dent in the car.
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The coach went ballistic after the referee missed the obvious foul.
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She’ll go ballistic if you tell her we forgot her birthday.
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The customer went ballistic and demanded to speak to a manager.
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I almost went ballistic when the internet cut out during my interview.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as “go ballistic” (no object). Common tenses: went ballistic, has gone ballistic. Can take a prepositional trigger: “go ballistic over/about/when…”.
Synonyms
- fly off the handle
- hit the roof
- blow up
- lose it
- go berserk
Antonyms
- stay calm
- keep one’s cool
- remain composed