Up in Arms – किसी बात पर गुस्सा या नाराज होना

The idiom “Up in arms” means to be very angry or upset about something, often involving strong emotions or a protest. It is typically used to describe a situation where people are outraged or discontented and are expressing their anger or dissatisfaction in a public or visible manner.

Meaning:
“Up in arms” refers to a state of anger, displeasure, or protest. It signifies that someone or a group of people is very upset about an issue and may raise objections or take action against it. The expression conveys a sense of opposition and strong reaction to something that is seen as wrong or unjust.

Used When:

• When someone is extremely angry or displeased about a particular event, decision, or action.
• Referring to situations where people are protesting or actively fighting against something, often in the form of demonstrations or public outcry.
• Describing a group of people or a community that is united in their anger over an issue.

Implied Message:
The idiom “Up in arms” implies collective outrage and intense reaction. It suggests that the anger or discontent is so strong that people feel compelled to take action or voice their opinions loudly. This expression often hints at a level of organization or mobilization of people who are collectively protesting a cause.

Hindi Equivalent:
“किसी बात पर गुस्सा या नाराज होना”
This Hindi phrase captures the same meaning, indicating a state of being angry, upset, or displeased with something. It is often used to describe someone’s reaction to a situation where they feel wronged or hurt and respond with frustration.

Detailed Explanation
The idiom “Up in arms” has its roots in the idea of people being ready to fight or take up arms (weapons) against something they disagree with. Historically, this expression referred to the act of rising up or rebelling against an authority or a situation that was perceived as unjust. Today, the phrase is used more broadly to refer to any instance where individuals or groups are strongly opposed to something, whether it involves physical confrontation or just loud protest or complaints.

For example, when a government makes an unpopular decision, the people might be “up in arms” about it, meaning they are voicing their anger through protests, strikes, or public demonstrations. It can also be used to describe situations at a smaller scale, like a person being upset over a personal matter.

Example Sentences:
English: “The workers were up in arms over the new pay cuts.”
Hindi: “मजदूर नए वेतन कटौती पर गुस्से में थे।”

English: “The community is up in arms over the construction of a new factory in the residential area.”
Hindi: “समुदाय एक आवासीय क्षेत्र में नए कारखाने के निर्माण पर गुस्से में है।”

Key Takeaways:

• The idiom “Up in arms” signifies anger, outrage, or protest against something, often with the intention of taking action or making their voices heard.
• It conveys a sense of strong opposition, where individuals or groups feel compelled to express their discontent in a significant way.
• The phrase is often used when people are collectively upset, whether through public protests, complaints, or open criticism.

Origin of the Idiom:
The expression “Up in arms” comes from the imagery of raising arms to fight, suggesting that people are ready to take up weapons or act forcefully to protest something. Originally used in the context of rebellions or uprisings, it evolved to refer to any strong reaction of anger or discontent. It’s now widely used in everyday language to describe anger or protest in various situations, both large and small.

Real-World Examples:

In Protests:
English: “The citizens were up in arms when they found out the company was polluting the river.”
Hindi: “नागरिक गुस्से में थे जब उन्होंने पाया कि कंपनी नदी को प्रदूषित कर रही थी।”

In Disagreements:
English: “She was up in arms when her promotion was delayed.”
Hindi: “जब उसका प्रमोशन टल गया, तो वह नाराज थी।”

When to Use the Idiom:

• When describing someone who is angry, outraged, or upset about a particular issue.
• To refer to a situation where there is collective anger or a public display of protest against a decision, policy, or action.
• When individuals or groups are actively opposing something or expressing their strong disagreement in a visible way.

Reflection Questions:

• Have you ever been up in arms about something that you strongly disagreed with?
• How did you express your anger or frustration in that situation?
• Do you think protesting or speaking up is effective in situations where people are up in arms?

Similar Expressions

English Idiom	Hindi Meaning
Up in the air	अस्थिर स्थिति में
Raise a protest	विरोध व्यक्त करना
In a rage	गुस्से में
On the warpath	युद्ध के रास्ते पर