Caleb Foster
If you've ever seen someone so angry that they seem to be spitting nails, you might be wondering where this phrase comes from. The idiom 'spitting nails' is used to describe someone who is speaking or behaving in an extremely angry way. It's often used to refer to someone who is rapidly firing off angry words, similar to the way nails are fired from a nail gun. So, if you ever find yourself in a situation where someone is spitting nails, it's probably best to steer clear!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Anger | Extreme |
| Expression | Verbal |
| Behaviour | Extreme |
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What You'll Learn
To speak in a very angry manner
The phrase is often used to describe someone who is so angry that they are behaving in a way that is similar to the rapid-fire succession of nails when a nail gun is used. This image of anger and frustration is conveyed through the phrase, which is why it is so effective at describing extreme anger.
The phrase has been used in various publications, including the *Spokane Daily Chronicle* and *The Independent*, to describe sources of anger and frustration. For instance, in an article from the *Spokane Daily Chronicle*, a character is described as being so mad at their Aunt Jenny that they "could spit nails". Similarly, in an article from *The Independent*, the three chiefs of staff are described as 'spitting nails' over proposals to cut the defence budget.
Therefore, the phrase 'spitting nails' is a powerful way to describe someone who is speaking or behaving in an extremely angry manner. It conveys a sense of intense anger and frustration that is difficult to control.
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To behave in an extremely angry way
For example, you might say: 'The boss is spitting nails today, so I'd stay out of his way if I were you'. Or: 'I was spitting nails when I saw my partner flirting with someone else'.
The phrase is often used in the continuous tense, as in the examples above, to describe someone who is currently extremely angry. However, it can also be used in the simple past tense, as in: 'One thing about Aunt Jenny gets me so mad I could spit nails'.
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To be completely and utterly disgusted with something
For example, you might say: 'I was spitting nails when I saw my mum making out with my boyfriend'.
The phrase is often used to describe someone who is so angry they could 'spit nails'. For instance, 'one thing about Aunt Jenny gets me so mad I could spit nails'.
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To be extremely angry
To be 'spitting nails' means to be extremely angry. This phrase is used to describe someone who is speaking or behaving in an extremely angry way. It is often used to describe someone who is so angry that they are sputtering or speaking very quickly, like the rapid-fire succession of nails when a nail gun is used.
For example, someone might say "I was spitting nails when I saw my mom making out with my boyfriend" or "The three chiefs of staff are described by sources as 'spitting nails' over the latest proposals to cut the defence budget even further".
The phrase is often used to describe someone who is so angry that they are behaving in a way that is out of character or particularly intense. It can also be used to describe someone who is strongly expressing their anger verbally, such as yelling or shouting.
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To strongly express one's anger
The phrase is used to convey that someone is completely and utterly disgusted with something. For example, "I was spitting nails when I saw my mom making out with my boyfriend".
The phrase is often used to describe someone's reaction to a specific event or situation. For instance, "The three chiefs of staff are described by sources as 'spitting nails' over the latest proposals to cut the defence budget even further".
So, if you want to strongly express your anger, you could say that you are 'spitting nails'. This phrase will definitely get your point across!
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Frequently asked questions
To be 'spitting nails' means to be extremely angry.
'Spit tacks' is also used to mean the same thing.
If someone is 'spitting nails', they are speaking or behaving in an extremely angry way.
The phrase is thought to originate from the rapid-fire succession of nails when a nail gun is used.
"Unless you want to get yelled at, stay away from the boss today—he's spitting nails over that printing mishap."
