We all have bad days, and we all have at least the occasional bout of anger at someone or something. Expressing feelings is healthy, and that certainly applies to anger as it does to any other emotion. Screaming or yelling things in your own language, kicking walls, slamming doors and running away in a huff can also help reduce your anger, but nothing beats communicating your anger to someone in words they understand.
Anger refers to a negative feeling of frustration, disappointment or even anger. In this article, we will answer the question "How can I express my anger in English?" and we will teach you some of the most used angry expressions in English.
By learning English angry phrases, you will have an arsenal of things to say to people in the United States when you are angry. express anger in englishcan open doors for communication. And sometimes it's good. (But of course, you'll need to calm down at some point — for some tips and advice, scroll to the bottom of this article.)
Are you ready? Here's EnglishClass101's guide to getting angry in English, complete with lots ofangry with angerPhrases in English!
Index
- angry imperatives
- anger warnings
- angry finger pointing
- Describe how you are feeling
- Bonus: How to Calm Down When You're Angry
- How EnglishClass101 can help you express yourself in English
1. Angry imperatives
You use an angry imperative when you want to tell someone what to do. The following angry English phrases are useful to communicate when someone needs to stop what they are doing!
1- Cala to mouth!
Meaning:
When you tell someone to "shut up" you are demanding that they stop talking. Basically it's like telling someoneshut your mouth(which, funnily enough, is another common angry phrase in English).
Example:
A mother and her teenage songet into a big fight; One of them says something the other doesn't like, so they yell "Shut up!"
Additional comments:
While this is traditionally an "angry" expression, it is also used in two other contexts:
1) Playing a game of telling someone to shut up (like when best friends tease each other)
2) This phrase is sometimes said when someone says something nice, although this is less common. For example, if someone tells you they're taking you to Disneyland for your birthday, you might say, "Shut up!" in excitement or disbelief.
2- Stop it.
Meaning:
Use this phrase to tell someone to stop doing what they are doing. (And you mean now!)
Example:
Your family keeps teasing you about something and you can't take it anymore so you yell "Stop it!"
Additional comments:
Like the sentence above, this sentence is occasionally used in jest, e.g. B. among friends. If someone says this to you and you're not sure if they mean it or not, it's best to play it safe and stop.
3-Cut!
Meaning:
This phrase means exactly the same as "stop it", but is usually less serious.
Example:
A parent can use this angry phrase with their children to calm them down or stop misbehaving.
Additional comments:
It can be used jokingly or in light situations.
4- Leave me alone.
Meaning:
Sometimes you just need to be alone while you calm down and pull yourself together. This phrase is telling someone to let you do it (with the implication that you'll get even angrier if they don't leave you alone).
Example:
You and your significant other get into a huge fight, and in desperation to be alone and temporarily end the fight, you say, "Leave me alone."
Additional comments:
While the other terms in this section are often used jokingly, this term tends to be more serious and less likely to be used jokingly. If someone tells you that, it's best to give them "space" (leave them alone).
5- Get lost.
Meaning:
Telling someone to "go away" is the same as telling them to leave you alone or go away. This tends to be a more derogatory way of saying "leave you alone" and implies that you not only wish they would go away, but that you don't care where they go. You are so angry that you just want her to go away.
Example:
You're arguing with a close friend or family member about something serious and then you tell them to "leave". Since this person is close to you, these words are meant to hurt them and show your anger, suggesting that you don't care where they go.
Additional comments:
From time to time this phrase can be used playfully or affectionately, but not too often.
2. Anger Warnings
If you feel anger rising or if someone is about to cross a serious boundary, it's only fair to let them know. Use the angry English phrases below to let someone know you are getting mad at them.
1- Don't mess with me.
Meaning:
Tell someone this when they are making you angry, especially if they are saying mean things or trying to physically hurt you. This is to let them know that you will fight if they don't stop.
Example:
You are at school and another student comes up to you and makes fun of you or generally harasses you. You could say, "Don't mess with me" as a warning that they need to stop.
2- You are looking for trouble.
Meaning:
This is similar to the sentence above. This means that you will fight back if the other person doesn't leave you alone or stop what you are doing.
Example:
Someone who lives in your apartment complex is trying to pick a fight with you. You could tell them "You're looking for trouble" as a warning that if they start a fight you'll fight backto win.
Additional comments:
I recommend not using this angry phrase too often in English, if at all. It is best used when you feel in danger and want the other party to back off and leave you alone.
3- Okay, you asked for it!
Meaning:
Use this phrase when the other party has ignored your previous warnings. This phrase lets them know you're going to fight back because they didn't listen sooner.
Example:
The person in your apartment who tried to start an argument didn't give up, so now you'd say, "Okay, you asked for it!"
4- Don't make me repeat myself.
Meaning:
This angry expression is often used between two close people: family members, close friends or significant others. Occasionally it may be used by a teacher for a student (or an entire classroom).
When you say this phrase, it means you've already told the person to stop doing something and they didn't listen. This phrase implies that if you ever have to tell them again, you'll be so angry, they better watch out!
Example:
You rent an apartment with a friend and he hasn't paid the full amount he owes. They've been saying for months that they need to start paying more, but they're not listening. During a rent discussion, you say, "Don't make me say that again!"
This phrase is usually followed by the words "or else..." implying that if they don't listen, there will be negative consequences (e.g., your friend can't live with you anymore).
5- This is my last warning.
Meaning:
This is a very classic phrase that children growing up in the United States often hear from their parents. It's very similar to the above sentence, but it also implies that if they don't listen, there will be negative consequences.
Example:
A mother repeatedly told her young son not to run around the house. Finally, after the thirteenth time, she pulls him aside and says, "Don't run around the house anymore.This is my final warning.“
6- I don't want to see you again.
Meaning:
Use this phrase when someone very close to you has done something to hurt you. It means you are so hurt and angry about what they did or said that you hope you never see them again. It can sometimes be used as a cue for them to leave.
Example:
Your significant other did something that really hurt or upset you. So you tell them, "I don't want to see you again!"
7- I will not tolerate this.
Meaning:
This expression is most commonly used by teachers in relation to their students (or entire classes) and by parents in relation to their children. It can also be used between friends and important people.
When you use this expression, it means someonecrossed a lineor they did somethingReallyshouldn't have done. Saying this means that if it happens again, it will have very negative consequences.
Example:
A student starts talking badly about a teacher or behaves very badly in class. The teacher pulls the student aside and says: "I will not tolerate this!"
8- How many times do I have to tell you?
Meaning:
This phrase has a similar meaning to "don't make me say that again", but is actually less angry and morefrustrated. It means you are very disappointed and frustrated with someone for not listening to you or for not doing what you want them to do.
You can use this phrase in a variety of situations and across different relationship barriers (for example, you can use this phrase equally for a significant other, a colleague, or your child).
Example:
Your boyfriend has been bugging you all week about going to an event with him the following weekend. You keep saying no, but they keep insisting. You end up getting so mad at them that you say, "How many times do I have to tell you?I do not want to go."
9- You're getting on my nerves.
Meaning:
When you use this expression, it means that someone is very close to making you angry (or more angry).
Example:
A family member just won't leave you alone about something. You're really upset with her, so you say, "You're getting on my last nerves' to warn them to stop.
Additional comments:
Sometimes you might hear something like "You're pressuring me".This sentence may sound strange, but it really just means the same thing as "You're getting on my nerves".
10- That's enough.
Meaning:
This is an angry phrase and a defeat phrase. It means that both of you are very angry and tired of fighting or arguing and you just want it to stop. This phrase is usually said in a confident tone and means something like "stop it".
Example:
You and your colleagues are arguing about something at work and you are very stressed. You're frustrated and angry that your coworkers aren't listening to you, so you end up saying "That's enough" and leaving the room if possible.
3. Pointing the finger in anger
Often, a person's first reaction to a stressful situation or something that upsets him is to blame someone else. Use the following phrases to express your disappointment in someone else's words or actions and to show that you are angryfor themfor something that happened. Note that many of these are angry questions in English and don't really require an answer.
1- What did you think?
Meaning:
Use this phrase when someone does something really stupid or something that makes you angry. This implies that they must not have clearly thought about doing something as horrible as they did.
Example:
A father discovers that his daughter has run away from home a few nights ago. He talks to her about it and asks, "What were you thinking?"
2- Who do you think you are?
Meaning:
This phrase implies that you don't like the attitude of the person you are angry with. Tell someone this when you think they are being too proud or rude and it makes them angry.
Example:
You're in line at a restaurant and someone cuts in front of you. You're already having a bad day, so you tell them, "Who do you think you are?"
3- Are you crazy?
Meaning:
This phrase is very similar to "What were you thinking?" but it is usually used in more serious situations or when the person has done something terrible.
Example:
You and one of your friends get into a big fight and you pick up your phone and throw it across the room. You immediately ask her: "Are you crazy?"
4- What's wrong with you?
Meaning:
This is similar to "What were you thinking?" and "Are you crazy?" When you say that phrase to someone, it means that you think that the only way for that person to behave the way they are is if there is something wrong with them.
Example:
You just told someone not to do something and they just did it to piss you off. You say, "What's the matter with you?"
Additional comments:
Sometimes you can hear the phrases "Are you sick", "Are you confused" or "Are you crazy", especially on TV. All of these mean pretty much the same thing.
5- You don't listen to me.
Meaning:
This blame game indicates that the person you're angry with isn't paying attention to what you're saying, especially in the middle of an argument.
Example:
You and your spouse are arguing about something and you keep trying to explain something to them but they cut you off every time you start talking. You can say "You're not listening" to alert her or just end the discussion.
6- It's all your fault.
Meaning:
This is the most classic of the angry finger pointing in English. It literally means that whatever negative thing has happened is entirely the other person's fault.
Example:
Your boyfriend kept you up all night so you couldn't study and the next day you failed the test. The next time you see her, you can say, "I failed the test. And it's all your fault.
7- You screwed up.
Meaning:
This is similar to "It's all your fault". This is often used when someone blames someone else for something bad that happened (especially when things were planned to go in a certain direction but didn't).
Example:
You've been working on a big project for weeks and a family member accidentally deletes all the files on your laptop one day before the deadline. You tell them, "You screwed up!"
8-You are impossible.
Meaning:
When you say to someone "You are impossible", it means that you are frustrated with that person's attitude, with an action they did or with something they said. Essentially, it's "impossible" to deal with or be around them without getting angry or frustrated.
Example:
You are arguing with a family member about something and they keep interrupting you when you try to talk. Eventually, in frustration, you yell "You're impossible!" and walks away from the conversation.
Additional comments:
Close friends and family members often say this to each other in tones of mild frustration. This angry accusation has exactly the same meaning, but is delivered in a lighter form.
9- It's none of your business.
Meaning:
Use this phrase when someone is trying to interfere in your life in an undesirable way. This phrase basically means that whatever is going on in your life or how you live it is not for her to interfere.
Example:
Your mother puts you on a date without warning. If you ask her why she would do that, she'll say, "I thought you needed a boyfriend/girlfriend." So you roll your eyes and say, "None of your business!"
10- I don't believe you.
Meaning:
This phrase is similar to "You are impossible". Basically it means you are angry or shocked about something someone has done or said. It seems impossible to you that they could have done or said this.
Example:
Your brother spilled orange juice on his homework. You turn to her and say "I can not believe you! You ruined my homework!"
11- How could you do that?
Meaning:
Use this phrase when someone is doing something that really hurts your feelings, especially if you feel betrayed by that person. Basically, it asks them how they can be so reckless or even mean for doing something like this (especially behind your back).
Example:
Someone discovers that their spouse or significant other has been unfaithful to them. They ask her: "How could you do this?"
12- You blameMich?
Meaning:
People often use this phrase when trying to blame someonetheyfor something that is (possibly) the other person's fault. and Midlea rhetorical questionabout who really should be to blame.
Example:
You wait in front of your friend's house at the agreed time to take him to the airport and he takes forever to get ready. On the way, you get stuck in heavy traffic and miss your flight.
Your friend says, "I can't believe you made me miss my flight!" They answer"you are blaming me? You should have finished earlier.
4. Describe how you are feeling
Once the yelling, fighting, and blaming have stopped, it's important to express how you really feel (and why). This might not be the best time to start a conversation, but using any of the following phrases can help open the door to a conversation later on.
1- I'm ready to talk.
Meaning:
This expression is often used after taking time off after an argument. It indicates that you are upset about something and that you are finally ready and comfortable to talk reasonably about it with this person.
Example:
You and your spouse had an argument and you left the house for a bit to cool off. When you get home, you find her and say, "I'm ready to talk."
2- I'm very upset.
Meaning:
Use this phrase to let the other party know that you are upset or angry. Often just mentioning this fact is enough to start the conversation.
Example:
You discover that your child has lied to you. When you talk to them about it, you say, "I'm really upset."
Additional comments:
This sentence is often used as the beginning of a longer sentence: "I'm very upsetone___” or “I am very upsetO___.“
So, in the example situation, you might as well say, "I'm really upsetthat you lied to me.” This makes the source of your anger or frustration clearer to the person you are talking to.
3- I'm fed up.
Meaning:
This phrase might sound a little strange, but it essentially means that you have enough of something and can't eat any more (like when you're full and don't want to be).gefütterteat more). Use this phrase when you are fed up with another person's attitude or behavior, or even during a situation.
Example:
A family member has been bugging you all day, and you finally tell them, "I've had enough!"
4- I hate this/you.
Meaning:
This is one of the strongest phrases on this list because hate is such a powerful emotion. Saying this means you hate the situation (her) or the person you are talking to (you).
Example:
A child fights with his mother and the fight becomes heated. Finally the child says "I hate you!". and she runs out of the room.
Additional comments:
In America, people use the phrase "I hate you" as a joke.all the time, especially when someone has caused them a minor inconvenience that they both can laugh about. You can usually tell whether or not it's a joke by the context, but I don't recommend joking around with this often (just in case).
5- I have never been so disappointed.
Meaning:
Say this phrase when you want someone to know that you really upset him this time. Saying this phrase means that this person has let you down more than ever.
Example:
A close friend recently did something to hurt you. As you vent about it to someone else, you say, "I've never been so disappointed."
6- You make me so angry.
Meaning:
This is a very clear, direct and angry sentence. You are just letting the other person know that they are making you angry. This is a great phrase to use when you don't want to worry too much about the draft and just want to get straight to the point.
Example:
Your significant other is doing something that annoys youagain. You tell them, "You make me so angry!"
7- I can't take it anymore/now.
Meaning:
Use this phrase to let someone know you're done with them (or the situation) and are overwhelmed.
Example:
You've had a rough day and at the end of the day you come home to family drama. You tell everyone "I can't handle this right now" and go to your room.
8- I wish ___.
Meaning:
Use this phrase to communicate to someone what you want from them or how you want things to be.
Example:
Some common ways to end this sentence are:
- "I wishwould you hear me!”
- "I wishwould you stop doing that!”
- "I wishwould you leave me alone.“
- "I wishyou weren't like that ___ [negative adjective].“
- "I wishnone of that happened.“
5. Bonus: How to Calm Down When You're Angry
Venting your anger every now and then is crucial to maintaining healthy relationships. But also learning to calm down and take control of how you feel (and how you react to your emotions). While this is a lifelong task and requires constant thought and practice, there are some things you can do to improve your mood after you get angry:
- Take a few deep breaths:Don't roll your eyes. A few deep breaths can be a way to slow down your heartbeat and mind; This can help you see things more clearly and rationally.
- A practice:Whether you exercise regularly or not, physical activity can help you feel better. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals that make you feel better (even if you don't like to exercise). Personally, I find a long walk very helpful, but jogging, lifting weights, or even cooking a meal can help.
- Listen to music:Listening to music is a common way to understand and release your emotions in a healthy way. Whether you prefer listening to angry music to fully express your negative emotions, or listening to something calmer to cool off faster, this can be an effective way to get back on track.
- Write something:For some people, writing is an excellent form of release. You could write a page or two in your journal about why you're angry, work on a story or writing assignment, or even write a letter to someone when you're angry (which you won't give). Putting your thoughts into words on the page or screen will help you process your feelings more easily. Want to know how to express your anger in writing? Moneythis fascinating and honest article on the subject.
- Take a nap:We all know how grumpy we can get when we are tired or sleepy. If possible, lie down in your room and take a nap. Often just a few minutes of sleep can help us think more clearly and rationally. If you're too angry to sleep, lie down and try to relax.
- Put yourself in the other person's shoes:When you are "walking in someone else's shoes", try to see things from their perspective. You need to ask yourself what the other party is thinking and feeling and why they think or feel that way. Then examine yourself and your behavior in light of what you've discovered about the other party. they thinkOfwere they irrational? Why? This is a fantastic way to gain insight and can help you problem-solve more effectively in the long run (although it can sometimes be difficult to consider the other person's thoughts and feelings).
- Think of some calming mantras:A "mantra" is something like a motto or phrase and is usually said or thought to create a calmer or more inspired way of thinking. For example, you might think something simple like "Calm down" or "Everything will be fine".
- Keep your distance:Sometimes the best thing is to spend some time alone or just get away from the person or situation that is making you angry. Whether you go to your room and close the door, go for a walk or run, or spend time at the mall or a coffee shop, this distance can help you stay refreshed and think more clearly.
Once you've had some time to calm down,it's time to make amends. If you've left a conversation, discussion, or situation unfinished, it's usually best to go back and end it. Hopefully the other party (or parties) have also taken some time to cool down so that both of them can have a much more sensible discussion if need be.
6. How EnglishClass101 can help you express yourself in English
By now, you should have plenty of angry phrases to get you through the toughest of days. While it's usually best to keep your mouth shut during moments of great anger, it's healthy and important to let it out every now and then. And sometimes the other is justAsk for it...
Self-expression is an essential aspect of being human, and being able to do so effectively is essential to maintaining healthy relationships, both with others and with yourself. If you want to continue learning to express yourself in English, EnglishClass101 .com different wayslearning toolsand vocabulary lists dedicated to it (including aEnglish anger vocabulary list). Knowing how to describe your anger in English is just one aspect of the big picture:
- 10 lines you need to introduce yourself
- Top 20 words for positive emotions
- Phrases to express your fears
- The 20 most important words you need for the internet
- Common ways to apologize
Know that your determination to learn English and all the time and effort you put into it will pay off. Not every aspect of this language learning journey is easy, but EnglishClass101.com hopes to make each lesson as fun and effective as possible!
Keep working hard and know that one day you will speak, write and read English like a native! You can do it. 🙂
Before you go, tell us your favorite angry English phrase in the comments! What are the most common angry phrases in your native language and what do they mean? We are happy to hear from you!