Stir up a hornets' nest definitions
| Word backwards | rits pu a 'stenroh tsen |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | The part of speech of the phrase "stir up a hornets' nest" is a verb phrase. |
| Syllabic division | stir up a horn/ets' nest |
| Plural | The plural of the phrase "stir up a hornets' nest" would be "stirring up hornets' nests." |
| Total letters | 18 |
| Vogais (5) | i,u,a,o,e |
| Consonants (6) | s,t,r,p,h,n |
What Does it Mean to Stir up a Hornets' Nest?
Stirring up a hornets' nest is an idiomatic expression that means to cause a lot of trouble or controversy by doing or saying something that upsets a group of people. Imagine poking a hornet's nest with a stick – the result is chaos and mayhem as the hornets swarm out to defend their home. In a figurative sense, stirring up a hornets' nest creates a similar reaction of anger, chaos, or trouble.
Origin of the Phrase
The phrase "stir up a hornets' nest" dates back to at least the early 19th century. It likely originated from the idea of poking a literal hornets' nest and facing the consequences of your actions. The imagery of angry hornets swarming out of their nest to attack the disturber perfectly encapsulates the chaos and trouble that can result from stirring up a metaphorical hornets' nest.
When Might Someone Stir up a Hornets' Nest?
People might unknowingly stir up a hornets' nest by making controversial statements, challenging deeply held beliefs, or revealing secrets that cause conflict or unrest. This can happen in personal relationships, at work, in politics, or any situation where tensions are already high. Sometimes, stirring up a hornets' nest is intentional, as a way to address issues that have been brewing under the surface.
Consequences of Stirring up a Hornets' Nest
When someone stirs up a hornets' nest, they risk facing backlash, criticism, or even outright hostility from those affected. The situation can escalate quickly, leading to arguments, hurt feelings, damaged relationships, or even legal repercussions. It's essential to consider the potential consequences before deciding to stir up a hornets' nest, as the fallout can be significant.
In conclusion, the expression "stir up a hornets' nest" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of provoking strong reactions or inciting conflict. While it may be necessary to address sensitive issues or challenge the status quo, it's essential to do so thoughtfully and with care to avoid causing unnecessary chaos or turmoil. Next time you find yourself in a situation where emotions are running high, think twice before stirring up a hornets' nest.
Stir up a hornets' nest Examples
- Her decision to skip the meeting without notice stirred up a hornets' nest among her colleagues.
- The controversial article published by the journalist certainly stirred up a hornets' nest in the community.
- Bringing up the topic of politics at the family dinner table always manages to stir up a hornets' nest.
- The new policy implemented by the company seemed to stir up a hornets' nest of discontent among employees.
- The singer's offhand comment about a rival artist quickly stirred up a hornets' nest on social media.
- Trying to divide the group based on personal opinions is likely to stir up a hornets' nest of arguments.
- Discussing religion can sometimes stir up a hornets' nest of differing beliefs and opinions.
- When the politician made the controversial statement, it stirred up a hornets' nest of criticism from the public.
- A simple misunderstanding can easily stir up a hornets' nest of rumors and gossip.
- Bringing up past grievances at the family reunion is sure to stir up a hornets' nest of emotions.