A man in a passion rides a horse that runs away with him.
A man in a passion rides a horse that runs away with him.
Meaning in plain English
Strong anger or agitation can carry a person into actions they would not choose calmly. The runaway horse suggests losing direction under an emotion, while allowing that feelings may reveal a concern worth addressing.
Example
After receiving a dismissive message, an organiser saves a furious draft, takes a break and sends a specific request for clarification instead of the insults.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The rider is pictured being carried along by a horse they are no longer directing. Applied to a person in a passion, the image can describe a rapid chain of words or decisions driven by anger rather than a considered purpose. It invites a pause to regain direction, not a requirement to suppress every strong feeling or pretend that a grievance is unimportant. The emotion may identify something that needs attention, while the immediate action still needs judgment. A useful response creates enough distance to choose what to say or do and then returns to the underlying matter more clearly.
When to use it
Use it when an emotional reaction is beginning to steer words or decisions away from the intended purpose.
Keep in mind
A pause does not invalidate a grievance or require tolerating harm; address the concern in a considered way.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases
Entry 1212 · Passion
Read the original context ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · historical anthology
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Public domain (United States)
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
Provenance and licences ↗