bull in a china shop

/bˈʊl ɪn ɐ tʃˈaɪnə ʃˈɒp/

/bˈʊl ɪn ɐ tʃˈaɪnə ʃˈɑːp/

[phrase]

[PHRASE]

an individual who often breaks things or makes mistakes in situations that require thoughtful behavior or thinking

bull in a china shop definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "bull in a china shop" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase "bull in a china shop" can be traced back to the early 19th century. The exact origin is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated from a literal scenario where an actual bull accidentally enters a shop filled with delicate china or glassware, causing destruction and chaos. The phrase gained popularity as a metaphorical expression to describe someone's clumsy or destructive behavior, emphasizing the stark contrast between the strength and size of a bull and the fragility of china. Over time, "bull in a china shop" became a commonly used idiom to convey a lack of grace or finesse and the potential for unintended consequences when someone is not careful or considerate in their actions.

Examples

1. You know, Trump is a bull in a china shop for sure, but a lot of that china needed to be broken.

2. He is the type of guy who wants to make an impact over a longer period of time, and you can’t do that just by being the bull in a china shop.

3. And it's like, uh-oh, it's like a bull in a china shop, you know?

4. - It's like a bull in a china shop.

Nearby words