IdiomThe Absurd
English
Englishscream blue murder
Meaning: To protest very loudly.
Example: “The toddler screamed blue murder when we took the phone away.”
Origin: "Blue" as an intensifier; the phrase may play on the French oath "morbleu." It is recorded from the 19th century. Americans also say "bloody murder."
Equivalents in other languages
French: Pousser des cris d'orfraie Literally: To shriek like an osprey
More English idioms
- send someone packing To dismiss someone abruptly.
- money burns a hole in someone's pocket Someone cannot keep money without spending it.
- jump through hoops To go through many difficult or pointless steps to get something.
- a parting shot A final sharp remark made while leaving.
- grease someone's palm To bribe someone.
- set the record straight To correct a mistaken account or misunderstanding.
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