makes a scene
Acts out publicly
To make a scene is to create a public disturbance through loud, dramatic, or emotionally excessive behavior—crying, shouting, or otherwise drawing unwanted attention.
The phrase carries disapproval: Please don't make a scene in front of the guests.
Children throw tantrums; adults make scenes.
The implication is that the behavior is disproportionate or inappropriate to the setting.
- overreactingDisproportionate emotional response
- commotionNoisy, confused disturbance
- outburstSudden emotional release
- disturbanceDisruption of order
- theatricsExaggerated dramatic behavior
throwing a fit · drama · drama queen · tantrum · spectacle · fuss · public display · causing a stir · anger · flying off the handle · confrontation · outrage · ruckus · histrionics · embarrassment · airing dirty laundry · attention-seeking · uproar
makes a scenekeeps it together
Maintains emotional stability
holds it together · bites one's tongue · keeps one's cool · internalizes · grins and bears it
make, makes, made, making, maker, makers, scene, scenes, scenic