In this guide, we’ll explain what does going postal mean? in simple, easy-to-understand words. The phrase “going postal” is used to describe someone suddenly becoming extremely angry or violent, often in a workplace setting. Understanding this expression will help you recognize it in conversations, news articles, or casual discussions.
The first time I heard the phrase “going postal,” I thought it had something to do with mail delivery. But soon I realized it’s actually a slang expression with a much darker meaning. It’s used in both casual and serious conversations, often to describe extreme anger or violence. If you’ve ever wondered what “going postal” really means, where it comes from, and how to use it correctly (or avoid it), this guide will explain everything clearly.
Quick Answer: “Going postal” means suddenly becoming extremely angry, often to the point of violent outbursts. It’s slang that originated from real-life incidents involving U.S. postal workers in the 1980s–1990s.
What Does Going Postal Mean?
In modern slang, going postal refers to losing control due to anger, often dramatically or violently. While it can be used figuratively to describe frustration, it originally referred to real workplace violence incidents involving U.S. postal employees.
Simple Example:
“He went postal when he saw his computer crashed for the third time today.”
→ Meaning: He became extremely angry, though usually used figuratively in casual conversation.
In short:
Going postal = extreme anger or rage = losing control, sometimes violently.
Where Is Going Postal Commonly Used?
You’ll see this term in:
- Movies, TV shows, and books 🎬📚
- News articles (historical context) 📰
- Casual conversations or jokes 💬
- Online forums and social media 🌐
- Workplace frustration memes 😂
Tone:
Informal and often humorous, but can be serious due to historical context. Not appropriate for formal or professional use.
Examples
A: he saw his desk was cleared out
B: man, he nearly went postal
A: my laptop crashed again!
B: don’t go postal 😅
A: the printer broke in the middle of my report
B: i almost went postal last time that happened
A: our team lost the project
B: i’m going to go postal if this happens again
A: he screamed at the printer
B: classic going postal moment
When to Use and When Not to Use
✅ When to Use
- In casual conversation about extreme frustration
- In jokes or humorous exaggeration
- Discussing historical or cultural references
- With friends or online audiences familiar with slang
❌ When Not to Use
- Formal writing or professional emails
- Conversations about actual workplace violence
- Situations where it may offend or trigger trauma
Comparison Table
| Context | Example Phrase | Why It Works (or Doesn’t) |
| Friend Chat | “Don’t go postal over spilled coffee” | Casual, relatable |
| Social Media | “I nearly went postal when my game crashed 😂” | Humorous, informal |
| News Article | “Several incidents of workplace violence occurred” | Formal, avoids slang |
| Workplace Email | “Please remain calm” | Appropriate, avoids offensive slang |
Similar Slang Words or Alternatives
| Term | Meaning | When to Use |
| Lose it | Become extremely angry | Casual conversation |
| Blow up | React explosively | Informal chats |
| Flip out | Sudden anger or panic | Informal use |
| Go ballistic | Extremely angry | Casual or humorous |
| Freak out | Lose control emotionally | Informal situations |
FAQs
1. Is “going postal” offensive?
It can be, due to its connection to real violent incidents, so context matters.
2. Where did this phrase come from?
It originated in the U.S. in the 1980s–1990s, referring to violent incidents involving postal workers.
3. Can it be used jokingly?
Yes, often used figuratively to describe extreme frustration in casual conversation.
4. Is it still used today?
Yes, mostly as slang or in humorous exaggerations.
5. Can it describe anger at non-work situations?
Yes, it can refer to extreme frustration in any scenario.
6. Is it appropriate for professional settings?
No, it’s best avoided in formal or workplace communications.
7. Can it be used in writing?
Yes, but primarily in informal writing, blogs, or storytelling.
8. Are there alternatives that are safer?
Yes, “lose it,” “blow up,” or “flip out” are less sensitive alternatives.
9. Can it be used to describe women or children?
Technically yes, but historically it referred to adult workers. Context matters.
10. Is “going postal” considered humorous today?
Often yes, in memes or exaggeration, though it still carries serious historical undertones.
Conclusion:
Now you know what does going postal mean? It describes someone suddenly becoming extremely angry or violent, often in a workplace or stressful situation. Understanding this phrase helps you recognize it in conversations, news stories, and everyday discussions. Knowing expressions like this makes communication clearer and helps you interpret people’s emotions more accurately.
Being aware of such terms can also help you respond more carefully in tense situations.
It gives you better insight into how language reflects strong emotions and behavior.
