PhrasesHub

What a palaver

    Definitions

      • express frustration or annoyance
        To show irritation or exasperation at a situation or task that is unnecessarily complicated or troublesome

      • describe a fuss or commotion
        To refer to a noisy or chaotic situation, often with a negative connotation

    Examples of What a palaver

    • The process of getting a visa for my sister's wedding in India turned out to be what a palaver. I had to fill out multiple forms, make countless phone calls, and even attend an interview at the embassy.

      Palaver refers to a complicated or long-winded process that involves a lot of hassle and bureaucracy. In this example, the speaker is complaining about the complicated and time-consuming process of obtaining a visa for India. The phrase highlights the frustration and inconvenience caused by the bureaucratic procedures required to obtain a visa.

    • Planning a surprise birthday party for a friend who is notoriously difficult to surprise can be what a palaver.

      This idiom, "What a palaver," refers to a situation that is excessively complicated, troublesome, or time-consuming. In this example, planning a surprise birthday party can be particularly challenging, especially if the friend is known for being hard to surprise. This could involve coordinating schedules, keeping secrets, and making sure all the details are in place without arousing suspicion. As a result, the process of planning such a party can be quite a hassle ornuisance, or in other words, what a palaver.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "what a palaver" can be used to express frustration or annoyance at a complicated or troublesome situation. It can also be used to describe a fuss or commotion, often with a negative connotation.

    Origin of "What a palaver"

    The phrase "What a palaver" originated from the British slang term "palaver," which was derived from the Portuguese word "palavra," meaning "speech" or "talk." It first appeared in English in the 18th century and was used to refer to a lengthy or tedious discussion or debate. Over time, the term evolved to encompass any noisy or chaotic situation, leading to the modern usage of the idiom to express frustration or annoyance at a troublesome or complicated situation. The idiom has since become a common expression in British English, used to convey exasperation or irritation.