Fly off the handle
/flaɪ ɒf ðə ˈhændl/informalUK · US
What does “Fly off the handle” mean?
Fly off the handle means to suddenly become very angry and react without much self-control.
A person who flies off the handle gets angry suddenly, often over something small. The phrase usually criticises how strongly they reacted.
The past tense is “flew off the handle.” Unlike “lose it,” this expression is about anger, not uncontrollable laughter or tears.
When do people say it?
Use it to describe someone who suddenly gets very angry, often over a small problem.
“He flew off the handle when I asked whether the report was finished.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The usual explanation is a tool head flying off its handle: something suddenly breaking free and causing damage.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Fly off the handle” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Lose it, Suddenly lose emotional control.
- Drive someone up the wall, Make someone extremely annoyed.
Last updated 2026-09-16