a bull in a china shop — a person who is clumsy or careless in a delicate situation, often causing damage or problems
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a person who is clumsy or careless in a delicate situation, often causing damage or problems
Pronunciation (IPA): /ə bʊl ɪn ə ˈtʃaɪnə ʃɑːp/
Example Sentences
- When my dad tries to use social media, he's like a bull in a china shop - he accidentally unfriends everyone!
- Don't ask Tom to help with the wedding preparations - he's a bull in a china shop when it comes to delicate arrangements.
- My little brother is like a bull in a china shop whenever he visits grandma's house full of antiques.
a bull in a china shop
NOUN[/ə bʊl ɪn ə ˈtʃaɪnə ʃɑːp/]
a person who is clumsy or careless in a delicate situation, often causing damage or problems
a massive bull stumbles forward through narrow aisles lined with precious china plates and teacups. The bull's thick body knocks over display shelves as it tries to navigate the cramped space. Beautiful porcelain pieces crash to the floor and shatter into countless fragments around its hooves. More delicate items teeter dangerously on nearby shelves from the vibrations. The horrified shop owner stands nearby with hands covering her face in shock. Other customers back away in alarm as more china continues falling. a person who is clumsy or careless in a delicate situation, often causing damage or problems
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This English idiom has been in use since the 17th century, originating from the vivid image of a large, powerful bull entering a shop filled with delicate porcelain and china, destroying everything in its path. The phrase contrasts brute strength with fragility and refinement.
Breakdown
bull (a large, powerful animal) + china shop (a store selling delicate porcelain). The metaphorical pairing creates an image of destructive force meeting brittle goods, representing careless behavior in a delicate situation.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“When my dad tries to use social media, he's like a bull in a china shop - he accidentally unfriends everyone!”
“Don't ask Tom to help with the wedding preparations - he's a bull in a china shop when it comes to delicate arrangements.”
“My little brother is like a bull in a china shop whenever he visits grandma's house full of antiques.”
📚Related Words
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