make a stink
Raise vocal objections
To make a stink is to complain loudly or cause a fuss, especially about something you find unfair or unacceptable.
The metaphor likens vocal protest to an unpleasant odor—impossible to ignore: She made a stink about the billing error until they finally refunded her.
The phrase suggests persistence and willingness to be disagreeable until the issue is addressed.
- sound offExpress opinions forcefully
- raise hellCause major disruption
- complaintExpression of discontent
- fussAgitated, unnecessary concern
- blow the whistleExpose hidden wrongdoing
go public · protest · outrage · outcry · rock the boat · backlash · kick up a fuss · grumble · object · denounce · gripe · cause a scene · uproar · stir the pot · criticize · rebuke · dissent · confrontation
make a stinkkeep quiet
Remain silent
say nothing · grin and bear it · bite one's tongue · suffer in silence · keep mum
make a stinkkeep a low profile
Remain unnoticed deliberately
fly under the radar · blend in · keep one's head down · stay quiet
make, makes, made, making, maker, makers, stink, stinks, stank