cause a scene
Create public commotion
To cause a scene is to create a public disturbance through dramatic or emotional behavior—crying, shouting, arguing loudly.
The phrase implies making a spectacle that draws unwanted attention and embarrasses those present: Please don't cause a scene in the restaurant.
Parents tell children not to cause a scene; adults accuse each other of causing one during arguments.
- dramaticsTheatrical art or behavior
- drama queenHabitual emotional exaggerator
- tantrumUncontrolled display of frustration
- throw a fitDisplay intense angry outburst
- fightPhysical or verbal conflict
make a fuss · disturbance · argument · outburst · embarrassment · commotion · grandstanding · quarrel · spectacle · awkwardness · air dirty laundry · theatrics · meltdown · lose your cool · scandal · protest · uproar · hysteria
cause a scenestay calm
Remain unruffled
keep cool · hold it together · bite one's tongue · grin and bear it · keep one's cool
cause a sceneblend in
Become part of surroundings
keep a low profile · fly under the radar · act naturally · play it cool · keep quiet
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