Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
on a short fuse
idiom
ɒn ə ʃɔrt fjuːz
Definition
Someone who is easily angered or quick to lose their temper.
Examples
- He’s on a short fuse lately; it’s best not to confront him about anything.
- The manager is on a short fuse with his team after missing the deadline.
- Be careful what you say around her, she’s been on a short fuse all day.
Meaning
The phrase ‘on a short fuse’ refers to a person who becomes angry very quickly, often with little provocation. It suggests a lack of patience and a tendency to react explosively to minor annoyances.
Synonyms
- hot-tempered
- irritable
- quick to anger
