1 C1 idiomatic slang
To suddenly begin an angry, excited, or lengthy rant, often in an exaggerated or dramatic way.
"She went off on one when she found out the event had been cancelled without warning."
go off on one
C1 slang intransitive
To suddenly start talking angrily, excitedly, or at great length, often in an exaggerated or theatrical way.
In plain English
To suddenly start shouting or ranting in an angry or very excited way.
What does "go off on one" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Usage tip
Distinctly British English slang. Often describes someone who overreacts or becomes disproportionately angry or passionate about something. Can be used with some affection or humour. The 'one' is an unstressed fixed part of the expression and cannot be replaced.
Words that pair with "go off on one"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
teacher manager mum again completely about
How to conjugate "go off on one"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
go off on one
I/you/we/they
3rd person
goes off on one
he/she/it
Past simple
went off on one
yesterday
Past participle
gone off on one
have + pp
-ing form
going off on one
continuous
Hear "go off on one" in the wild
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