- Meaning
- This idiom describes causing a fuss or making a strong, vocal protest about something, as if raising a foul smell to draw attention. It conveys disruptive complaint, often used in social, workplace, or public contexts to depict outspoken objection. The phrase carries a tone of irritation, defiance, or humor, reflecting cultural values of advocacy and the human tendency to react strongly to grievances. Its olfactory imagery evokes a pungent disturbance, resonating in scenarios like disputes or scandals. The idiom highlights vocal resistance, making it a lively metaphor for stirring trouble.
- Origin
- The phrase likely originated in 19th-century Britain, tied to slang for ‘stink’ as trouble or scandal, possibly from fish markets or rural life. Its earliest recorded use appears in *Punch* magazine (1870s), describing a public outcry. The idiom gained traction in the 20th century, amplified by British and Australian slang, with *The Guardian* (1920s) using it for labor protests. Its spread was boosted by media and comedy, notably in *Monty Python* sketches. Its adoption across English-speaking cultures stems from its vivid imagery and applicability to complaints.
- Variants
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- Kick up a fuss
- Raise a stink
- Kicking up a stink
- Examples
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- He kicked up a stink when they canceled his reservation.
- Kicking up a fuss, she demanded a refund for the faulty product.
- Raise a stink, they did, over the unfair policy change.
- Don’t kick up a stink; just talk to the manager calmly.
- Kicking up a stink, the tenants protested the rent hike.
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