Idiom for 'person who gets violent when drunk"Idiom for the phrase “someone who gets what he deserved”expression or idiom for a person who knows every detail about somethingAny equivalent to this Persian proverb “The yellow dog is the jackal's brother”?Idiom for a person who is above any questionthe most problematic or loud person gets the most attention and quiet person is ignoredIdiom for a person who acts like you're not thereIdiom for a person who gets owned/caught red handed for his mistake but shows as if nothing is wrongIdiom(s) for: Discouraged when losing and arrogant when winning?
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Idiom for 'person who gets violent when drunk"
Idiom for the phrase “someone who gets what he deserved”expression or idiom for a person who knows every detail about somethingAny equivalent to this Persian proverb “The yellow dog is the jackal's brother”?Idiom for a person who is above any questionthe most problematic or loud person gets the most attention and quiet person is ignoredIdiom for a person who acts like you're not thereIdiom for a person who gets owned/caught red handed for his mistake but shows as if nothing is wrongIdiom(s) for: Discouraged when losing and arrogant when winning?
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In Portuguese, the expressions "ter mau vinho" (have bad wine) and "ter mau álcool" (have bad alcohol) refer to people who become violent when they drink too much. Typically, these people are considered nice and even kind when sober, but become aggressive or violent after a few (or too many) drinks.
It's usually used in dialogue similarly too:
Daniel? Oh, he 'has bad alcohol'. I wouldn't go drinking with him, if I were you.
or
Daniel is such a nice guy! I'd never have thought he 'has bad alcohol'.
Is there a similar idiom in English?
idiom-requests
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
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asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
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add a comment
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In Portuguese, the expressions "ter mau vinho" (have bad wine) and "ter mau álcool" (have bad alcohol) refer to people who become violent when they drink too much. Typically, these people are considered nice and even kind when sober, but become aggressive or violent after a few (or too many) drinks.
It's usually used in dialogue similarly too:
Daniel? Oh, he 'has bad alcohol'. I wouldn't go drinking with him, if I were you.
or
Daniel is such a nice guy! I'd never have thought he 'has bad alcohol'.
Is there a similar idiom in English?
idiom-requests
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
6
How about a new one...booze berzerker?
– Cristobol Polychronopolis
Jun 11 at 15:49
2
"Malacopa" would be the answer in (Mexican) Spanish which is one of my favourite words
– CharlieB
Jun 11 at 19:13
2
Two-pot screamer.
– Alan B
Jun 12 at 8:41
In vino veritas
– Pedro Lobito
Jun 13 at 8:59
1
@PedroLobito That does not normally mewan violent - more that you say true unkind or things or things that should be kept secret
– user151019
Jun 13 at 17:32
add a comment
|
In Portuguese, the expressions "ter mau vinho" (have bad wine) and "ter mau álcool" (have bad alcohol) refer to people who become violent when they drink too much. Typically, these people are considered nice and even kind when sober, but become aggressive or violent after a few (or too many) drinks.
It's usually used in dialogue similarly too:
Daniel? Oh, he 'has bad alcohol'. I wouldn't go drinking with him, if I were you.
or
Daniel is such a nice guy! I'd never have thought he 'has bad alcohol'.
Is there a similar idiom in English?
idiom-requests
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
In Portuguese, the expressions "ter mau vinho" (have bad wine) and "ter mau álcool" (have bad alcohol) refer to people who become violent when they drink too much. Typically, these people are considered nice and even kind when sober, but become aggressive or violent after a few (or too many) drinks.
It's usually used in dialogue similarly too:
Daniel? Oh, he 'has bad alcohol'. I wouldn't go drinking with him, if I were you.
or
Daniel is such a nice guy! I'd never have thought he 'has bad alcohol'.
Is there a similar idiom in English?
idiom-requests
idiom-requests
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
edited Jun 11 at 1:38
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
asked Jun 10 at 22:00
Sara CostaSara Costa
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
1,92813 gold badges38 silver badges49 bronze badges
6
How about a new one...booze berzerker?
– Cristobol Polychronopolis
Jun 11 at 15:49
2
"Malacopa" would be the answer in (Mexican) Spanish which is one of my favourite words
– CharlieB
Jun 11 at 19:13
2
Two-pot screamer.
– Alan B
Jun 12 at 8:41
In vino veritas
– Pedro Lobito
Jun 13 at 8:59
1
@PedroLobito That does not normally mewan violent - more that you say true unkind or things or things that should be kept secret
– user151019
Jun 13 at 17:32
add a comment
|
6
How about a new one...booze berzerker?
– Cristobol Polychronopolis
Jun 11 at 15:49
2
"Malacopa" would be the answer in (Mexican) Spanish which is one of my favourite words
– CharlieB
Jun 11 at 19:13
2
Two-pot screamer.
– Alan B
Jun 12 at 8:41
In vino veritas
– Pedro Lobito
Jun 13 at 8:59
1
@PedroLobito That does not normally mewan violent - more that you say true unkind or things or things that should be kept secret
– user151019
Jun 13 at 17:32
6
6
How about a new one...booze berzerker?
– Cristobol Polychronopolis
Jun 11 at 15:49
How about a new one...booze berzerker?
– Cristobol Polychronopolis
Jun 11 at 15:49
2
2
"Malacopa" would be the answer in (Mexican) Spanish which is one of my favourite words
– CharlieB
Jun 11 at 19:13
"Malacopa" would be the answer in (Mexican) Spanish which is one of my favourite words
– CharlieB
Jun 11 at 19:13
2
2
Two-pot screamer.
– Alan B
Jun 12 at 8:41
Two-pot screamer.
– Alan B
Jun 12 at 8:41
In vino veritas
– Pedro Lobito
Jun 13 at 8:59
In vino veritas
– Pedro Lobito
Jun 13 at 8:59
1
1
@PedroLobito That does not normally mewan violent - more that you say true unkind or things or things that should be kept secret
– user151019
Jun 13 at 17:32
@PedroLobito That does not normally mewan violent - more that you say true unkind or things or things that should be kept secret
– user151019
Jun 13 at 17:32
add a comment
|
7 Answers
7
active
oldest
votes
A "mean" drunk
...describes someone who gets aggressive when drink taken.
Why People Get Mean When They're Drunk, According to LiveScience.com:
There may be a mean drunk inside every man — and now scientists think they might know why.
According to a new paper published in the February issue of the journal Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience, MRI scans of drunk and sober men show that alcohol-related changes in the prefrontal cortex — the region of the brain thought to be responsible for moderating social behavior and aggression, among other executive functions — may be responsible for booze-induced anger.
Also, we have:
Personality Trait Reveals Who Becomes a Mean Drunk
Drinking can make some people more aggressive, and now researchers have found a particular personality trait — a focus on the present, with little regard of consequences — that appears to make someone under the influence more likely to become mean.
So you could say:
"Daniel is such a nice guy. I would never have thought that he is such a mean drunk."
Also see:
Why alcohol can turn you into a mean drunk
Mean Drunk: Anger, Hostility and Alcohol
I'm Out of Here: The Memoir of a Drunk
As you can see, it is used both formally and informally.
edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
11k6 gold badges39 silver badges69 bronze badges
3
Note that "mean" doesn't inherently state violence, but rather a lack of manners. People who get belligerent can also be described as being mean drunks, but they're not violent.
– Flater
Jun 11 at 14:31
10
I think you can extrapolate this to any other scenario too. I've heard happy drunk, sleepy drunk, loud drunk, violent drunk, and so on...
– dwizum
Jun 11 at 15:51
4
I've also seen "ugly drunk" used, with the same caveat Flater noted also applying.
– JonathanZ
Jun 11 at 16:00
4
I don't see anyone else mentioning it, but I've heard the term "angry drunk"
– mattgately
Jun 11 at 20:07
3
@mattgately American here, “angry drunk” was the first thing I thought of.
– BalinKingOfMoria
Jun 11 at 20:49
|
show 8 more comments
Daniel is such a nice guy, but gets belligerent when he drinks.
This is the term I've most often heard in the United States, especially among younger generations, to describe a person who becomes angry and / or violent when drunk.
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
1
+1.. that is a very good description.
– Cascabel
Jun 10 at 22:42
4
I like it, but it feels less informal. The Portuguese idiom is 100% informal.
– Sara Costa
Jun 10 at 22:49
3
@Michael_B while I've definitely used it in informal situations, I wouldn't call it slang. In a different context, it could be used very formally (e.g. "the suspect became belligerent and combative" could probably be said in a court room). I'm just nitpicking though :)
– mbrig
Jun 11 at 17:49
1
@mbrig, Agreed. That's why I focused my comment to apply only "in this use-case". I think in most, if not all, other use-cases it would be considered more formal usage. Thanks.
– Michael_B
Jun 11 at 17:52
2
This isn't really much of an idiom, it's pretty close to literal.
– Barmar
Jun 11 at 18:16
|
show 9 more comments
In the UK, we use the term "violent drunk" to describe somebody who becomes aggressive after a few drinks.
Daniel's usually a great bloke, but he's a really violent drunk.
From https://www.theguardian.com/society/2010/feb/14/children-parents-alcoholics-nacao-alcoholism:
Unlike a lot of people, my mum wasn't a violent drunk...
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
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Another option that seems to fit your literal Portuguese translation is:
We never bring John out if we're going somewhere nice, he can't handle his liquor.
This usage is more neutral and often refers to other alcohol-induced debauchery (usually towards getting rowdy or sick) but also can be used in your case. However, it may be necessary to also include some indication of aggression for the case you're after.
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
27
I don't think this is a good fit for the situation, as it means somebody who gets drunk easily but doesn't imply belligerence idioms.thefreedictionary.com/can%27t+hold+liquor
– 0xFEE1DEAD
Jun 11 at 11:49
add a comment
|
I have personally heard (and indeed use myself) the term "angry drunk"; though this is from my British perspective.
For example:
My friend Kevin started a fight in a bar last night. He's such an angry drunk.
It's not so much just an adjective to describe someone's demeanor when drunk (angry), as the term can be used as an umbrella for a set of actions (which includes, but is not limited to including, violence).
Source demonstrating use: https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19528649/the-reason-why-you-re-an-angry-drunk/
The accepted answer of "mean drunk" sounds ever so slightly old fashioned.
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
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From a British point of view you could go with 'lout'.
Dave has a few drinks and turns into a bit of a lout.
As per 'lager lout'.
Dave is a lager lout!
Although this sounds like it implies lager or beer, it's used more generically.
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
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Dutch courage
England and the Netherlands were commercial and political adversaries throughout much of the 17th & 18th centuries. As a natural but politically incorrect consequences, many pejorative expressions crept into the English vernacular. Here are a few that survive in varying degrees of common use today...
- Dutch uncle - the father of a bastard
- Dutch treat - no treat at all, as all parties pay their own way
- Dutch comfort - alternatively, Schadenfreude or acceptance that things could be worse
- Dutch bargain- agreement between drunks
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
Dutch courage isn't about violence or tendency to abuse when drunk, it's about the effects of lowered inhibition and stronger inclination to take bold risks, exercise bravado - more of a "damn the torpedoes" type of attitude.
– J...
Jun 13 at 19:22
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7 Answers
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A "mean" drunk
...describes someone who gets aggressive when drink taken.
Why People Get Mean When They're Drunk, According to LiveScience.com:
There may be a mean drunk inside every man — and now scientists think they might know why.
According to a new paper published in the February issue of the journal Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience, MRI scans of drunk and sober men show that alcohol-related changes in the prefrontal cortex — the region of the brain thought to be responsible for moderating social behavior and aggression, among other executive functions — may be responsible for booze-induced anger.
Also, we have:
Personality Trait Reveals Who Becomes a Mean Drunk
Drinking can make some people more aggressive, and now researchers have found a particular personality trait — a focus on the present, with little regard of consequences — that appears to make someone under the influence more likely to become mean.
So you could say:
"Daniel is such a nice guy. I would never have thought that he is such a mean drunk."
Also see:
Why alcohol can turn you into a mean drunk
Mean Drunk: Anger, Hostility and Alcohol
I'm Out of Here: The Memoir of a Drunk
As you can see, it is used both formally and informally.
edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
11k6 gold badges39 silver badges69 bronze badges
3
Note that "mean" doesn't inherently state violence, but rather a lack of manners. People who get belligerent can also be described as being mean drunks, but they're not violent.
– Flater
Jun 11 at 14:31
10
I think you can extrapolate this to any other scenario too. I've heard happy drunk, sleepy drunk, loud drunk, violent drunk, and so on...
– dwizum
Jun 11 at 15:51
4
I've also seen "ugly drunk" used, with the same caveat Flater noted also applying.
– JonathanZ
Jun 11 at 16:00
4
I don't see anyone else mentioning it, but I've heard the term "angry drunk"
– mattgately
Jun 11 at 20:07
3
@mattgately American here, “angry drunk” was the first thing I thought of.
– BalinKingOfMoria
Jun 11 at 20:49
|
show 8 more comments
A "mean" drunk
...describes someone who gets aggressive when drink taken.
Why People Get Mean When They're Drunk, According to LiveScience.com:
There may be a mean drunk inside every man — and now scientists think they might know why.
According to a new paper published in the February issue of the journal Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience, MRI scans of drunk and sober men show that alcohol-related changes in the prefrontal cortex — the region of the brain thought to be responsible for moderating social behavior and aggression, among other executive functions — may be responsible for booze-induced anger.
Also, we have:
Personality Trait Reveals Who Becomes a Mean Drunk
Drinking can make some people more aggressive, and now researchers have found a particular personality trait — a focus on the present, with little regard of consequences — that appears to make someone under the influence more likely to become mean.
So you could say:
"Daniel is such a nice guy. I would never have thought that he is such a mean drunk."
Also see:
Why alcohol can turn you into a mean drunk
Mean Drunk: Anger, Hostility and Alcohol
I'm Out of Here: The Memoir of a Drunk
As you can see, it is used both formally and informally.
edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
11k6 gold badges39 silver badges69 bronze badges
3
Note that "mean" doesn't inherently state violence, but rather a lack of manners. People who get belligerent can also be described as being mean drunks, but they're not violent.
– Flater
Jun 11 at 14:31
10
I think you can extrapolate this to any other scenario too. I've heard happy drunk, sleepy drunk, loud drunk, violent drunk, and so on...
– dwizum
Jun 11 at 15:51
4
I've also seen "ugly drunk" used, with the same caveat Flater noted also applying.
– JonathanZ
Jun 11 at 16:00
4
I don't see anyone else mentioning it, but I've heard the term "angry drunk"
– mattgately
Jun 11 at 20:07
3
@mattgately American here, “angry drunk” was the first thing I thought of.
– BalinKingOfMoria
Jun 11 at 20:49
|
show 8 more comments
A "mean" drunk
...describes someone who gets aggressive when drink taken.
Why People Get Mean When They're Drunk, According to LiveScience.com:
There may be a mean drunk inside every man — and now scientists think they might know why.
According to a new paper published in the February issue of the journal Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience, MRI scans of drunk and sober men show that alcohol-related changes in the prefrontal cortex — the region of the brain thought to be responsible for moderating social behavior and aggression, among other executive functions — may be responsible for booze-induced anger.
Also, we have:
Personality Trait Reveals Who Becomes a Mean Drunk
Drinking can make some people more aggressive, and now researchers have found a particular personality trait — a focus on the present, with little regard of consequences — that appears to make someone under the influence more likely to become mean.
So you could say:
"Daniel is such a nice guy. I would never have thought that he is such a mean drunk."
Also see:
Why alcohol can turn you into a mean drunk
Mean Drunk: Anger, Hostility and Alcohol
I'm Out of Here: The Memoir of a Drunk
As you can see, it is used both formally and informally.
edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
11k6 gold badges39 silver badges69 bronze badges
A "mean" drunk
...describes someone who gets aggressive when drink taken.
Why People Get Mean When They're Drunk, According to LiveScience.com:
There may be a mean drunk inside every man — and now scientists think they might know why.
According to a new paper published in the February issue of the journal Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience, MRI scans of drunk and sober men show that alcohol-related changes in the prefrontal cortex — the region of the brain thought to be responsible for moderating social behavior and aggression, among other executive functions — may be responsible for booze-induced anger.
Also, we have:
Personality Trait Reveals Who Becomes a Mean Drunk
Drinking can make some people more aggressive, and now researchers have found a particular personality trait — a focus on the present, with little regard of consequences — that appears to make someone under the influence more likely to become mean.
So you could say:
"Daniel is such a nice guy. I would never have thought that he is such a mean drunk."
Also see:
Why alcohol can turn you into a mean drunk
Mean Drunk: Anger, Hostility and Alcohol
I'm Out of Here: The Memoir of a Drunk
As you can see, it is used both formally and informally.
edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
11k6 gold badges39 silver badges69 bronze badges
edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
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edited Jun 11 at 21:22
Laurel
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38k7 gold badges78 silver badges129 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
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answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
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answered Jun 10 at 22:13
CascabelCascabel
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11k6 gold badges39 silver badges69 bronze badges
3
Note that "mean" doesn't inherently state violence, but rather a lack of manners. People who get belligerent can also be described as being mean drunks, but they're not violent.
– Flater
Jun 11 at 14:31
10
I think you can extrapolate this to any other scenario too. I've heard happy drunk, sleepy drunk, loud drunk, violent drunk, and so on...
– dwizum
Jun 11 at 15:51
4
I've also seen "ugly drunk" used, with the same caveat Flater noted also applying.
– JonathanZ
Jun 11 at 16:00
4
I don't see anyone else mentioning it, but I've heard the term "angry drunk"
– mattgately
Jun 11 at 20:07
3
@mattgately American here, “angry drunk” was the first thing I thought of.
– BalinKingOfMoria
Jun 11 at 20:49
|
show 8 more comments
3
Note that "mean" doesn't inherently state violence, but rather a lack of manners. People who get belligerent can also be described as being mean drunks, but they're not violent.
– Flater
Jun 11 at 14:31
10
I think you can extrapolate this to any other scenario too. I've heard happy drunk, sleepy drunk, loud drunk, violent drunk, and so on...
– dwizum
Jun 11 at 15:51
4
I've also seen "ugly drunk" used, with the same caveat Flater noted also applying.
– JonathanZ
Jun 11 at 16:00
4
I don't see anyone else mentioning it, but I've heard the term "angry drunk"
– mattgately
Jun 11 at 20:07
3
@mattgately American here, “angry drunk” was the first thing I thought of.
– BalinKingOfMoria
Jun 11 at 20:49
3
3
Note that "mean" doesn't inherently state violence, but rather a lack of manners. People who get belligerent can also be described as being mean drunks, but they're not violent.
– Flater
Jun 11 at 14:31
Note that "mean" doesn't inherently state violence, but rather a lack of manners. People who get belligerent can also be described as being mean drunks, but they're not violent.
– Flater
Jun 11 at 14:31
10
10
I think you can extrapolate this to any other scenario too. I've heard happy drunk, sleepy drunk, loud drunk, violent drunk, and so on...
– dwizum
Jun 11 at 15:51
I think you can extrapolate this to any other scenario too. I've heard happy drunk, sleepy drunk, loud drunk, violent drunk, and so on...
– dwizum
Jun 11 at 15:51
4
4
I've also seen "ugly drunk" used, with the same caveat Flater noted also applying.
– JonathanZ
Jun 11 at 16:00
I've also seen "ugly drunk" used, with the same caveat Flater noted also applying.
– JonathanZ
Jun 11 at 16:00
4
4
I don't see anyone else mentioning it, but I've heard the term "angry drunk"
– mattgately
Jun 11 at 20:07
I don't see anyone else mentioning it, but I've heard the term "angry drunk"
– mattgately
Jun 11 at 20:07
3
3
@mattgately American here, “angry drunk” was the first thing I thought of.
– BalinKingOfMoria
Jun 11 at 20:49
@mattgately American here, “angry drunk” was the first thing I thought of.
– BalinKingOfMoria
Jun 11 at 20:49
|
show 8 more comments
Daniel is such a nice guy, but gets belligerent when he drinks.
This is the term I've most often heard in the United States, especially among younger generations, to describe a person who becomes angry and / or violent when drunk.
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
1
+1.. that is a very good description.
– Cascabel
Jun 10 at 22:42
4
I like it, but it feels less informal. The Portuguese idiom is 100% informal.
– Sara Costa
Jun 10 at 22:49
3
@Michael_B while I've definitely used it in informal situations, I wouldn't call it slang. In a different context, it could be used very formally (e.g. "the suspect became belligerent and combative" could probably be said in a court room). I'm just nitpicking though :)
– mbrig
Jun 11 at 17:49
1
@mbrig, Agreed. That's why I focused my comment to apply only "in this use-case". I think in most, if not all, other use-cases it would be considered more formal usage. Thanks.
– Michael_B
Jun 11 at 17:52
2
This isn't really much of an idiom, it's pretty close to literal.
– Barmar
Jun 11 at 18:16
|
show 9 more comments
Daniel is such a nice guy, but gets belligerent when he drinks.
This is the term I've most often heard in the United States, especially among younger generations, to describe a person who becomes angry and / or violent when drunk.
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
1
+1.. that is a very good description.
– Cascabel
Jun 10 at 22:42
4
I like it, but it feels less informal. The Portuguese idiom is 100% informal.
– Sara Costa
Jun 10 at 22:49
3
@Michael_B while I've definitely used it in informal situations, I wouldn't call it slang. In a different context, it could be used very formally (e.g. "the suspect became belligerent and combative" could probably be said in a court room). I'm just nitpicking though :)
– mbrig
Jun 11 at 17:49
1
@mbrig, Agreed. That's why I focused my comment to apply only "in this use-case". I think in most, if not all, other use-cases it would be considered more formal usage. Thanks.
– Michael_B
Jun 11 at 17:52
2
This isn't really much of an idiom, it's pretty close to literal.
– Barmar
Jun 11 at 18:16
|
show 9 more comments
Daniel is such a nice guy, but gets belligerent when he drinks.
This is the term I've most often heard in the United States, especially among younger generations, to describe a person who becomes angry and / or violent when drunk.
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
Daniel is such a nice guy, but gets belligerent when he drinks.
This is the term I've most often heard in the United States, especially among younger generations, to describe a person who becomes angry and / or violent when drunk.
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
edited Jun 12 at 13:55
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
answered Jun 10 at 22:41
Michael_BMichael_B
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
4,0901 gold badge13 silver badges22 bronze badges
1
+1.. that is a very good description.
– Cascabel
Jun 10 at 22:42
4
I like it, but it feels less informal. The Portuguese idiom is 100% informal.
– Sara Costa
Jun 10 at 22:49
3
@Michael_B while I've definitely used it in informal situations, I wouldn't call it slang. In a different context, it could be used very formally (e.g. "the suspect became belligerent and combative" could probably be said in a court room). I'm just nitpicking though :)
– mbrig
Jun 11 at 17:49
1
@mbrig, Agreed. That's why I focused my comment to apply only "in this use-case". I think in most, if not all, other use-cases it would be considered more formal usage. Thanks.
– Michael_B
Jun 11 at 17:52
2
This isn't really much of an idiom, it's pretty close to literal.
– Barmar
Jun 11 at 18:16
|
show 9 more comments
1
+1.. that is a very good description.
– Cascabel
Jun 10 at 22:42
4
I like it, but it feels less informal. The Portuguese idiom is 100% informal.
– Sara Costa
Jun 10 at 22:49
3
@Michael_B while I've definitely used it in informal situations, I wouldn't call it slang. In a different context, it could be used very formally (e.g. "the suspect became belligerent and combative" could probably be said in a court room). I'm just nitpicking though :)
– mbrig
Jun 11 at 17:49
1
@mbrig, Agreed. That's why I focused my comment to apply only "in this use-case". I think in most, if not all, other use-cases it would be considered more formal usage. Thanks.
– Michael_B
Jun 11 at 17:52
2
This isn't really much of an idiom, it's pretty close to literal.
– Barmar
Jun 11 at 18:16
1
1
+1.. that is a very good description.
– Cascabel
Jun 10 at 22:42
+1.. that is a very good description.
– Cascabel
Jun 10 at 22:42
4
4
I like it, but it feels less informal. The Portuguese idiom is 100% informal.
– Sara Costa
Jun 10 at 22:49
I like it, but it feels less informal. The Portuguese idiom is 100% informal.
– Sara Costa
Jun 10 at 22:49
3
3
@Michael_B while I've definitely used it in informal situations, I wouldn't call it slang. In a different context, it could be used very formally (e.g. "the suspect became belligerent and combative" could probably be said in a court room). I'm just nitpicking though :)
– mbrig
Jun 11 at 17:49
@Michael_B while I've definitely used it in informal situations, I wouldn't call it slang. In a different context, it could be used very formally (e.g. "the suspect became belligerent and combative" could probably be said in a court room). I'm just nitpicking though :)
– mbrig
Jun 11 at 17:49
1
1
@mbrig, Agreed. That's why I focused my comment to apply only "in this use-case". I think in most, if not all, other use-cases it would be considered more formal usage. Thanks.
– Michael_B
Jun 11 at 17:52
@mbrig, Agreed. That's why I focused my comment to apply only "in this use-case". I think in most, if not all, other use-cases it would be considered more formal usage. Thanks.
– Michael_B
Jun 11 at 17:52
2
2
This isn't really much of an idiom, it's pretty close to literal.
– Barmar
Jun 11 at 18:16
This isn't really much of an idiom, it's pretty close to literal.
– Barmar
Jun 11 at 18:16
|
show 9 more comments
In the UK, we use the term "violent drunk" to describe somebody who becomes aggressive after a few drinks.
Daniel's usually a great bloke, but he's a really violent drunk.
From https://www.theguardian.com/society/2010/feb/14/children-parents-alcoholics-nacao-alcoholism:
Unlike a lot of people, my mum wasn't a violent drunk...
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
add a comment
|
In the UK, we use the term "violent drunk" to describe somebody who becomes aggressive after a few drinks.
Daniel's usually a great bloke, but he's a really violent drunk.
From https://www.theguardian.com/society/2010/feb/14/children-parents-alcoholics-nacao-alcoholism:
Unlike a lot of people, my mum wasn't a violent drunk...
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
add a comment
|
In the UK, we use the term "violent drunk" to describe somebody who becomes aggressive after a few drinks.
Daniel's usually a great bloke, but he's a really violent drunk.
From https://www.theguardian.com/society/2010/feb/14/children-parents-alcoholics-nacao-alcoholism:
Unlike a lot of people, my mum wasn't a violent drunk...
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
In the UK, we use the term "violent drunk" to describe somebody who becomes aggressive after a few drinks.
Daniel's usually a great bloke, but he's a really violent drunk.
From https://www.theguardian.com/society/2010/feb/14/children-parents-alcoholics-nacao-alcoholism:
Unlike a lot of people, my mum wasn't a violent drunk...
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
edited Jun 11 at 19:24
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
answered Jun 11 at 15:09
NugssonNugsson
1875 bronze badges
1875 bronze badges
add a comment
|
add a comment
|
Another option that seems to fit your literal Portuguese translation is:
We never bring John out if we're going somewhere nice, he can't handle his liquor.
This usage is more neutral and often refers to other alcohol-induced debauchery (usually towards getting rowdy or sick) but also can be used in your case. However, it may be necessary to also include some indication of aggression for the case you're after.
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
27
I don't think this is a good fit for the situation, as it means somebody who gets drunk easily but doesn't imply belligerence idioms.thefreedictionary.com/can%27t+hold+liquor
– 0xFEE1DEAD
Jun 11 at 11:49
add a comment
|
Another option that seems to fit your literal Portuguese translation is:
We never bring John out if we're going somewhere nice, he can't handle his liquor.
This usage is more neutral and often refers to other alcohol-induced debauchery (usually towards getting rowdy or sick) but also can be used in your case. However, it may be necessary to also include some indication of aggression for the case you're after.
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
27
I don't think this is a good fit for the situation, as it means somebody who gets drunk easily but doesn't imply belligerence idioms.thefreedictionary.com/can%27t+hold+liquor
– 0xFEE1DEAD
Jun 11 at 11:49
add a comment
|
Another option that seems to fit your literal Portuguese translation is:
We never bring John out if we're going somewhere nice, he can't handle his liquor.
This usage is more neutral and often refers to other alcohol-induced debauchery (usually towards getting rowdy or sick) but also can be used in your case. However, it may be necessary to also include some indication of aggression for the case you're after.
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
Another option that seems to fit your literal Portuguese translation is:
We never bring John out if we're going somewhere nice, he can't handle his liquor.
This usage is more neutral and often refers to other alcohol-induced debauchery (usually towards getting rowdy or sick) but also can be used in your case. However, it may be necessary to also include some indication of aggression for the case you're after.
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
answered Jun 11 at 7:29
groffreygroffrey
1372 bronze badges
1372 bronze badges
27
I don't think this is a good fit for the situation, as it means somebody who gets drunk easily but doesn't imply belligerence idioms.thefreedictionary.com/can%27t+hold+liquor
– 0xFEE1DEAD
Jun 11 at 11:49
add a comment
|
27
I don't think this is a good fit for the situation, as it means somebody who gets drunk easily but doesn't imply belligerence idioms.thefreedictionary.com/can%27t+hold+liquor
– 0xFEE1DEAD
Jun 11 at 11:49
27
27
I don't think this is a good fit for the situation, as it means somebody who gets drunk easily but doesn't imply belligerence idioms.thefreedictionary.com/can%27t+hold+liquor
– 0xFEE1DEAD
Jun 11 at 11:49
I don't think this is a good fit for the situation, as it means somebody who gets drunk easily but doesn't imply belligerence idioms.thefreedictionary.com/can%27t+hold+liquor
– 0xFEE1DEAD
Jun 11 at 11:49
add a comment
|
I have personally heard (and indeed use myself) the term "angry drunk"; though this is from my British perspective.
For example:
My friend Kevin started a fight in a bar last night. He's such an angry drunk.
It's not so much just an adjective to describe someone's demeanor when drunk (angry), as the term can be used as an umbrella for a set of actions (which includes, but is not limited to including, violence).
Source demonstrating use: https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19528649/the-reason-why-you-re-an-angry-drunk/
The accepted answer of "mean drunk" sounds ever so slightly old fashioned.
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
add a comment
|
I have personally heard (and indeed use myself) the term "angry drunk"; though this is from my British perspective.
For example:
My friend Kevin started a fight in a bar last night. He's such an angry drunk.
It's not so much just an adjective to describe someone's demeanor when drunk (angry), as the term can be used as an umbrella for a set of actions (which includes, but is not limited to including, violence).
Source demonstrating use: https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19528649/the-reason-why-you-re-an-angry-drunk/
The accepted answer of "mean drunk" sounds ever so slightly old fashioned.
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
add a comment
|
I have personally heard (and indeed use myself) the term "angry drunk"; though this is from my British perspective.
For example:
My friend Kevin started a fight in a bar last night. He's such an angry drunk.
It's not so much just an adjective to describe someone's demeanor when drunk (angry), as the term can be used as an umbrella for a set of actions (which includes, but is not limited to including, violence).
Source demonstrating use: https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19528649/the-reason-why-you-re-an-angry-drunk/
The accepted answer of "mean drunk" sounds ever so slightly old fashioned.
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
I have personally heard (and indeed use myself) the term "angry drunk"; though this is from my British perspective.
For example:
My friend Kevin started a fight in a bar last night. He's such an angry drunk.
It's not so much just an adjective to describe someone's demeanor when drunk (angry), as the term can be used as an umbrella for a set of actions (which includes, but is not limited to including, violence).
Source demonstrating use: https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19528649/the-reason-why-you-re-an-angry-drunk/
The accepted answer of "mean drunk" sounds ever so slightly old fashioned.
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
answered Jun 12 at 13:18
JamesJames
1213 bronze badges
1213 bronze badges
add a comment
|
add a comment
|
From a British point of view you could go with 'lout'.
Dave has a few drinks and turns into a bit of a lout.
As per 'lager lout'.
Dave is a lager lout!
Although this sounds like it implies lager or beer, it's used more generically.
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
add a comment
|
From a British point of view you could go with 'lout'.
Dave has a few drinks and turns into a bit of a lout.
As per 'lager lout'.
Dave is a lager lout!
Although this sounds like it implies lager or beer, it's used more generically.
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
add a comment
|
From a British point of view you could go with 'lout'.
Dave has a few drinks and turns into a bit of a lout.
As per 'lager lout'.
Dave is a lager lout!
Although this sounds like it implies lager or beer, it's used more generically.
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
From a British point of view you could go with 'lout'.
Dave has a few drinks and turns into a bit of a lout.
As per 'lager lout'.
Dave is a lager lout!
Although this sounds like it implies lager or beer, it's used more generically.
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
answered Jun 12 at 13:31
Craig HCraig H
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
6974 silver badges9 bronze badges
add a comment
|
add a comment
|
Dutch courage
England and the Netherlands were commercial and political adversaries throughout much of the 17th & 18th centuries. As a natural but politically incorrect consequences, many pejorative expressions crept into the English vernacular. Here are a few that survive in varying degrees of common use today...
- Dutch uncle - the father of a bastard
- Dutch treat - no treat at all, as all parties pay their own way
- Dutch comfort - alternatively, Schadenfreude or acceptance that things could be worse
- Dutch bargain- agreement between drunks
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
Dutch courage isn't about violence or tendency to abuse when drunk, it's about the effects of lowered inhibition and stronger inclination to take bold risks, exercise bravado - more of a "damn the torpedoes" type of attitude.
– J...
Jun 13 at 19:22
add a comment
|
Dutch courage
England and the Netherlands were commercial and political adversaries throughout much of the 17th & 18th centuries. As a natural but politically incorrect consequences, many pejorative expressions crept into the English vernacular. Here are a few that survive in varying degrees of common use today...
- Dutch uncle - the father of a bastard
- Dutch treat - no treat at all, as all parties pay their own way
- Dutch comfort - alternatively, Schadenfreude or acceptance that things could be worse
- Dutch bargain- agreement between drunks
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
Dutch courage isn't about violence or tendency to abuse when drunk, it's about the effects of lowered inhibition and stronger inclination to take bold risks, exercise bravado - more of a "damn the torpedoes" type of attitude.
– J...
Jun 13 at 19:22
add a comment
|
Dutch courage
England and the Netherlands were commercial and political adversaries throughout much of the 17th & 18th centuries. As a natural but politically incorrect consequences, many pejorative expressions crept into the English vernacular. Here are a few that survive in varying degrees of common use today...
- Dutch uncle - the father of a bastard
- Dutch treat - no treat at all, as all parties pay their own way
- Dutch comfort - alternatively, Schadenfreude or acceptance that things could be worse
- Dutch bargain- agreement between drunks
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
Dutch courage
England and the Netherlands were commercial and political adversaries throughout much of the 17th & 18th centuries. As a natural but politically incorrect consequences, many pejorative expressions crept into the English vernacular. Here are a few that survive in varying degrees of common use today...
- Dutch uncle - the father of a bastard
- Dutch treat - no treat at all, as all parties pay their own way
- Dutch comfort - alternatively, Schadenfreude or acceptance that things could be worse
- Dutch bargain- agreement between drunks
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
answered Jun 13 at 14:50
user290235user290235
491 bronze badge
491 bronze badge
Dutch courage isn't about violence or tendency to abuse when drunk, it's about the effects of lowered inhibition and stronger inclination to take bold risks, exercise bravado - more of a "damn the torpedoes" type of attitude.
– J...
Jun 13 at 19:22
add a comment
|
Dutch courage isn't about violence or tendency to abuse when drunk, it's about the effects of lowered inhibition and stronger inclination to take bold risks, exercise bravado - more of a "damn the torpedoes" type of attitude.
– J...
Jun 13 at 19:22
Dutch courage isn't about violence or tendency to abuse when drunk, it's about the effects of lowered inhibition and stronger inclination to take bold risks, exercise bravado - more of a "damn the torpedoes" type of attitude.
– J...
Jun 13 at 19:22
Dutch courage isn't about violence or tendency to abuse when drunk, it's about the effects of lowered inhibition and stronger inclination to take bold risks, exercise bravado - more of a "damn the torpedoes" type of attitude.
– J...
Jun 13 at 19:22
add a comment
|
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6
How about a new one...booze berzerker?
– Cristobol Polychronopolis
Jun 11 at 15:49
2
"Malacopa" would be the answer in (Mexican) Spanish which is one of my favourite words
– CharlieB
Jun 11 at 19:13
2
Two-pot screamer.
– Alan B
Jun 12 at 8:41
In vino veritas
– Pedro Lobito
Jun 13 at 8:59
1
@PedroLobito That does not normally mewan violent - more that you say true unkind or things or things that should be kept secret
– user151019
Jun 13 at 17:32