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spin out of control
/spɪn aʊt əv kənˈtroʊl/◆idiom
to become chaotic or uncontrollable
The situation quickly spun out of control during the protest.
The situation became chaotic and uncontrollable during the protest.
informal
To become chaotic, uncontrollable, or out of order
The discussion spun out of control when personal attacks started.
The discussion became chaotic and uncontrollable when personal attacks started.
If we don't act now, the economy could spin out of control.
If we don't act now, the economy could become chaotic and uncontrollable.
Often used to describe situations, events, or emotions that escalate beyond control.
Collocations
spin out of controlto become chaotic or uncontrollable
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use this phrase to describe situations that escalate beyond control, often with negative consequences.
Gold Rule
Context Rule
This idiom is informal and should be used in casual or conversational contexts.
Word Origin
The phrase combines the verb 'spin' (to rotate rapidly) with 'out of control' to create a vivid metaphor for chaos.
Usage Notes
This idiom is commonly used in informal contexts to describe situations that escalate beyond control, often with negative consequences.
Word Breakdown
spin
to rotate rapidly
verbout of control
beyond control or order
phraseEnglish Dictionary