Throw your toys out of the pram: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Throw your toys out of the pram” mean?

"Throw your toys out of the pram" means to have a sudden and angry outburst or tantrum.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He threw his toys out of the pram when he didn't get his way.

Example

She throws her toys out of the pram whenever things don't go as planned.

Example

The child threw his toys out of the pram when his ice cream fell on the ground

Is “Throw your toys out of the pram” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Throw your toys out of the pram” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Throw your toys out of the pram” effectively in context?

You can use "Throw your toys out of the pram" to describe someone who has a sudden and angry outburst or tantrum. It emphasizes the idea of reacting childishly and irrationally when things don't go their way. For example, if a coworker gets upset and starts yelling during a meeting because their idea was rejected, you might say, 'He really threw his toys out of the pram.'

• 1. Personal Relationships

  She always throws her toys out of the pram whenever her partner disagrees with her.

• 2. Work

  The employee threw his toys out of the pram when he didn't get the promotion he wanted.

• 3. Parenting

  The child threw his toys out of the pram when his parents told him he couldn't have another cookie.

Similar phrases to “Throw your toys out of the pram”:

Have a meltdown

To have an emotional breakdown or lose control of one's emotions

Example

She had a meltdown when she found out her flight was canceled.

Lose one's cool

To become angry or lose control of one's emotions

Example

He lost his cool when his computer crashed right before an important presentation.

Fly off the handle

To suddenly become very angry or lose one's temper

Example

She flew off the handle when she saw the mess in the kitchen.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Throw your toys out of the pram” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Throw your toys out of the pram" is unknown.

Is “Throw your toys out of the pram” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Throw your toys out of the pram" is not as common in everyday conversation as some other idioms. It is more commonly used in informal settings or when talking about someone's behavior in a negative or critical way.

What tone does “Throw your toys out of the pram” have?

"Throw your toys out of the pram" conveys a tone of disapproval or criticism. It suggests that the person's reaction is childish and unreasonable.

Can “Throw your toys out of the pram” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Throw your toys out of the pram" is more commonly used in informal settings. It may not be appropriate for formal situations such as business meetings or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He threw his toys out of the pram when he didn't get his way.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't throw your toys out of the pram!' to imply that someone should not react childishly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• have a tantrum
• act out
• throw a fit
• lose one's temper
• get upset

Antonyms

• stay calm
• keep composure
• remain composed
• control emotions