exhibit a childish outburst
/ɪɡˈzɪbɪt ə ˈtʃaɪldɪʃ ˈaʊtbɜːst/
Meaning
This formal phrase describes an adult displaying a sudden, immature fit of anger, frustration, or temper, similar to a child's tantrum. It is used in professional, psychological, or formal interpersonal contexts to critique someone's lack of emotional regulation. The tone is highly critical and objective.
Examples
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During the negotiation, the manager shocked everyone when he exhibited a childish outburst.
During the negotiation, the manager shocked everyone when he exhibited a childish outburst.
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To exhibit a childish outburst in a professional setting can severely damage your career.
To exhibit a childish outburst in a professional setting can severely damage your career.
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She regretted exhibiting a childish outburst when her ideas were rejected.
She regretted exhibiting a childish outburst when her ideas were rejected.
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His tendency to exhibit a childish outburst makes him difficult to work with.
His tendency to exhibit a childish outburst makes him difficult to work with.
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Rather than discussing the issue calmly, he chose to exhibit a childish outburst.
Rather than discussing the issue calmly, he chose to exhibit a childish outburst.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He made a childish outburst during the dinner.
✓ He exhibited a childish outburst during the dinner.
While 'had a childish outburst' is common in casual English, the formal collocation is 'exhibit an outburst'. 'Make' is incorrect.
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✗ She exhibited a childish outburst to her boss.
✓ She exhibited a childish outburst in front of her boss.
You do not exhibit an outburst 'to' someone; you exhibit it 'in front of' them or direct it 'at' them.
Related Expressions
Practice
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An executive should never ___ when things do not go their way.
💡 Formally describe throwing an immature fit.
Show answer
exhibit a childish outburst
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His reputation was ruined after he chose to ___ at the press conference.
💡 Show a sudden, immature display of anger.
Show answer
exhibit a childish outburst