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to go off the deep end
01
to suddenly and violently express one's anger
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "go off the deep end" and when to use it?
The exact origin of the idiom "go off the deep end" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, possibly in the United States. This expression is often used to describe emotional breakdowns, sudden outbursts, or drastic decisions made without careful consideration. It can be applied to situations where individuals respond intensely to stress, frustration, or personal challenges, often crossing social or behavioral boundaries.
Example
If they don't resolve the issue soon, the employees will go off the deep end and start protesting.
The politician goes off the deep end when confronted with tough questions.
They went off the deep end when they discovered their project had been canceled.
She goes off the deep end whenever someone criticizes her work.
I fear she will go off the deep end if she doesn't get the job she's been hoping for.
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