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to have a cow
01
to be really stressed, angry, or upset about something that has happened or is going to happen
What is the origin of the idiom "have a cow" and when to use it?
The exact origin of the phrase "have a cow" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. This expression is commonly used in casual conversations, humorous exchanges, and popular culture references. It can be used to highlight moments of frustration, surprise, or outrage, often in a playful or humorous manner.
Example
When I told him I lost his wallet, he had a cow and yelled at me for hours.
Every time I mention spiders, my sister has a cow and starts screaming.
She's going to have a cow when she finds out we accidentally broke her favorite vase.
If you don't finish your homework, your teacher is going to have a cow.
I can already imagine Dad having a cow when he sees the dent on his car.
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