what is { To be up in arms } ?
"The population was up in arms over the demolition of the
old theatre."
Search from various English teachers...
Answers · 5
2
The literal definition is that they were armed with weapons and ready to attack.
The phrase is used commonly as an exaggeration, and can mean that they were simply very upset, not necessarily ready for violence.
1
It means that they were protesting as in a demonstration which could turn into a riot.
0
Richard has nailed it exactly: they had "arms" (armaments) which they were holding up in "rebellion"! Guns, pitchforks and flaming torches! And flaming guns shaped like pitchforks!!
Figuratively, of course. ;)
0
Ready to fight
0
Its like very angry or defensive. Preparing for a fight
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