Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Throw Your Toys Out of the Pram

What does it mean?

Throw your toys out of the pram means to have a sudden temper tantrum over something small. It compares an adult's emotional reaction to a baby throwing toys from their pram.

Is it positive or negative?

It's strongly negative - used to criticise childish behaviour.

When do you use it?

Use it when someone reacts angrily or dramatically to a minor problem or disappointment.

Examples

Example 1: He threw his toys out of the pram when he lost.

Example 2: Don't throw your toys out of the pram over a typo.

Question for you

What makes people throw their toys out of the pram?

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