Definition
This is a four-character idiom (成语) that literally means 'breath hastened, disposition ruined' — the image is of someone so angry or frustrated that they are gasping and losing their composure. It describes a state of frantic anger, exasperation, or utter defeat, often accompanied by irrational behavior. Use it when someone reacts with uncontrolled fury or is completely discomfited.
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flustered and exasperatedutterly discomfitedin a fit of angry frustration
Examples
- 气急败坏，。Tā tīngdào zhège xiāoxi hòu qì jí bài huài, dàshēng zémà qǐlái.After hearing the news, he flew into a rage and started cursing loudly.
- ，气急败坏。Miànduì shībài, tā qì jí bài huài de shuāi mén ér qù.Faced with failure, he slammed the door and left in a furious huff.
- 气急败坏。Lǎobǎn qì jí bài huài de pīpíng le suǒyǒu yuángōng.The boss, utterly exasperated, criticized all the employees.
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