running amok
Out of control
Running amok means behaving in a wild, uncontrolled, or destructive manner.
The phrase comes from a Malay word for a murderous frenzy.
Today it usually describes less violent chaos—children running amok through a house, or critics warning that technology is running amok.
Sometimes spelled *amuck*.
- going crazyBecoming mentally unhinged
- losing itMental composure collapsing
- berserkWildly, violently uncontrolled
- going postalViolent workplace outburst
- freaked outBecame extremely agitated
seeing red · mania · fit of rage · storming · rampage · chaos · impulsivity · rage · violent outburst · psychosis · mob mentality · historical accounts · dissociation · unraveling · mental break · losing control · destruction · outburst
- Old Idiomsbeyond the pale, hue and cry, scot-free, knight in shining armor, eat humble pie
- cultural psychiatrywindigo, cultural competence, pining, somatization
- letting loosecutting loose, letting go, going wild, going crazy, running wild
running amokholding back
Preventing forward movement
keeping one's cool · keeping it together · self-controlled · disciplined · measured
running amokorderly
Arranged with care
toeing the line · conforming · well-behaved · calm · peaceful