Phrasal verbs "flip out" vs "freak out"

Differences between flip out and freak out

Flip out and freak out are both informal phrasal verbs that mean to become very upset or angry. However, flip out is often used to describe a sudden and extreme reaction, while freak out can also refer to a more prolonged state of anxiety or panic.

Meanings and Definitions: flip out vs freak out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Flip out

• 1. Become very excited and lose control.

  He FLIPPED OUT when he won the final.

Freak out

• 1. Become very disturbed or angry.

  She FREAKED OUT completely when she didn't get the grades to get into university.

Usage Examples: flip out, freak out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

flip out

Example

She flipped out when she found out she won the lottery.

Example

He flips out whenever his favorite team scores a goal.

freak out

Example

I always freak out when I see a spider.

Example

She freaks out whenever she has to speak in public.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Flip out

go ballistic

To become extremely angry or agitated, often in a sudden and explosive manner.

Example

When he found out his car had been towed, he went ballistic and started yelling at the parking attendant.

lose one's cool

To become angry or upset and lose control of one's emotions.

Example

She lost her cool when she saw the mess in the kitchen and started throwing dishes around.

have a meltdown

To experience a sudden and overwhelming emotional breakdown, often in response to stress or pressure.

Example

After working 80 hours a week for months, he finally had a meltdown and quit his job on the spot.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Freak out

have a panic attack

To experience a sudden and intense feeling of fear or anxiety, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or shortness of breath.

Example

She had a panic attack when she realized she had lost her passport the day before her flight.

be beside oneself

To be extremely upset or agitated, often to the point of being unable to think or act rationally.

Example

He was beside himself with grief when he heard the news of his father's death.

freak someone out

To cause someone to feel scared, anxious, or uncomfortable.

Example

The horror movie freaked her out so much that she couldn't sleep for days.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “flip”

• flip off
• flip through

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

• go out
• read out
• head out
• pile out
• dry out

Differences in flip out vs freak out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: flip out or freak out?

Both flip out and freak out are commonly used in everyday conversation, especially among younger people. However, freak out may be slightly more common because it can also be used to describe a state of intense fear or worry.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of flip out and freak out

Neither flip out nor freak out are formal expressions, and they should be avoided in professional or academic settings. In these contexts, it's better to use more neutral language to express strong emotions.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of flip out and freak out

Both flip out and freak out have a negative tone, as they describe a state of distress or anger. However, flip out can also imply a sense of surprise or disbelief, while freak out suggests a more intense emotional response.

flip out & freak out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Flip out

Synonyms

• lose control
• freak out
• go crazy
• go wild
• go berserk
• lose one's temper
• become agitated
• get upset

Antonyms

• relax
• unwind
• calm down
• stay composed
• keep cool
• remain calm
• stay in control
• chill out

Freak out

Synonyms

• panic
• become upset
• become agitated
• lose control
• get worked up
• become anxious
• become frightened
• become scared

Antonyms

• relax
• calm down
• stay composed
• keep cool
• remain calm
• stay collected
• maintain composure