What does "Don't get your knickers in a knot" mean?
It means do not get too upset or worried about something. It is often teasing, but can sound dismissive if the other person is already frustrated.
Hear an Aussie say it
The saying
Don't get your knickers in a knot
Example
Don't get your knickers in a knot, it's only a game.
How Aussies use it
Playing a board game
Zoe: You moved my piece! That's cheating!
Ben: Don't get your knickers in a knot. It was an accident.
Ben is telling Zoe to calm down, in a teasing way.
At work
Hana: The coffee machine is broken again. This is a disaster!
Grace: Don't get your knickers in a knot. There's a cafe downstairs.
At the beach
Mia: You got sand all over my towel!
Jack: Don't get your knickers in a knot. I'll shake it out.
How to reply
- "I'm not! Okay, maybe a little." Laugh it off if it really is a small thing.
- "Fair enough." Fair enough means you're right, that's reasonable.
When to use it
Use it as light teasing with friends or family when someone is getting worked up (upset) over something small. Knickers means underwear, which is why the saying sounds silly and playful.
When not to use it
Don't say it to someone who is truly upset, or to your boss or a customer. It can sound like you are not taking them seriously, and telling someone to calm down this way can make them angrier.
Questions about "Don't get your knickers in a knot"
What does knickers mean in Australia?
Underwear, usually women's or girls' underpants. In this saying it just makes the phrase sound silly.
Is don't get your knickers in a knot rude?
Not really. It is not swearing, but it can sound like you are talking down to someone, so keep it for friends who will laugh.
Is it the same as knickers in a twist?
Yes. Don't get your knickers in a twist means the same thing, and you will hear both.
