get one's panties in a bunch
Fuss over nothing
To get one's panties in a bunch is to become upset or agitated over something minor.
The image suggests uncomfortable underwear twisted from nervous fidgeting.
Usually dismissive, telling someone not to get worked up: Don't get your panties in a bunch—it's just a parking ticket.
Variants include panties in a twist or knickers in a knot.
- make a mountain out of a molehillExaggerate trivial problems drastically
- storm in a teacupDisproportionate fuss over trifles
- lose one's coolBecome visibly upset
- fly off the handleLose temper suddenly
- freak outReact with extreme alarm
lose one's mind · go off the deep end · irritation · nitpicking · annoyance · frustration · defensiveness · hissy fit · exasperation · overreaction · make a fuss · throw a fit · get bent out of shape · get one's knickers in a twist · indignation · flip out · vexation · fluster
get one's panties in a bunchkeep one's cool
Maintain emotional control
stay calm · keep calm · stay cool · chill out · keep one's shirt on
get one's panties in a bunchwater off a duck's back
Criticism having no effect
laugh it off · let it go · shrug it off · brush it off · roll with the punches