Up in Arms
Meaning
“Up in arms” means extremely angry or upset about something, especially when people strongly object to a decision, action, or situation.
The expression comes from the literal image of people taking up weapons in preparation to fight.
Today, it is almost always used figuratively to describe strong public or personal outrage.
Usage
The phrase is commonly used when a group of people reacts strongly to something they consider unfair, unreasonable, or unacceptable.
It can describe anything from customers protesting a price increase to residents objecting to a new policy.
The expression is usually followed by “about” or “over” whatever has caused the anger.
Example Sentences
- The residents were up in arms over the proposed increase in parking fees.
- Parents were up in arms about the sudden change to the school schedule.
- Customers were up in arms after the company announced the unexpected price increase.
- The fans were up in arms over the referee’s controversial decision.
- Employees were up in arms when management announced the new workplace rules.