like a bull in a china shop
Meaning
Extremely clumsy, rough, or tactless in a delicate situation, often causing damage or upsetting people.
Origin
From the image of a large bull blundering into a shop full of fragile china, implying inevitable breakage; recorded in English by the 19th century.
Notes
Usually negative/critical. Implies clumsiness, roughness, or tactlessness in a sensitive setting. Common in conversation; can sound insulting if aimed at a person.
Examples
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He tried to help set the table, but he was like a bull in a china shop and knocked over two glasses.
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Whenever she gives feedback, she’s like a bull in a china shop—well-meaning, but far too blunt.
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Don’t let him reorganize the files; he’s like a bull in a china shop with anything detailed.
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I felt like a bull in a china shop at the art gallery, afraid I’d bump into something expensive.
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The new intern rushed into the meeting like a bull in a china shop and interrupted the client.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Most often used after verbs like “be/act/move” (e.g., “He’s like a bull in a china shop”). Sometimes “a bull in a china shop” without “like.” Articles/plural usually fixed.
Synonyms
- clumsy
- ham-fisted
- heavy-handed
- all thumbs
- awkward
- tactless
Antonyms
- delicate
- careful
- graceful
- tactful
- gentle
- nimble