be in a state

1. To be agitated, anxious, or upset. Tommy's been in a state ever since we took his video games away from him. Mom is in a state because she just found out that we're hosting all of our relatives for Christmas—which is three days away. Janine has been in a state about her driving test today. I hope she passes and gets her license.

2. To be chaotic, unruly, or disheveled; to be very messy or untidy. I'd invite you in for a cup of tea, but the house is in a state at the moment. My hair was in a state when I woke up this morning, and I haven't been able to do anything with it all day! Their house has been in a state ever since Dan's wife passed away.

be in a ˈstate

get into a ˈstate

(informal)
1 be/get worried, nervous or upset: Her husband was injured in a car crash yesterday, so she’s in a terrible state. ♢ He got into a state over his driving test.
2 be/get dirty or untidy: This house is in a real state! OPPOSITE: be/look a picture