create

cause (quite) a stir and cause a commotion

to cause people to become agitated; to cause trouble in a group of people; to shock or alarm people. When Bob appeared without jacket and tie, it caused a stir at the state dinner. The dog ran through the church and caused quite a commotion.

See also: cause, stir

create a stink (about something) and make a stink (about something); raise a stink (about something)

Fig. to make a major issue out of something; to make much over something; to make a lot of complaints and criticisms about something. Tom created a stink about Bob's remarks. Why did he make a stink about that? Tom is always trying to raise a stink.

See also: stink

create an uproar and make an uproar

to cause an outburst or sensation. The dog got into church and made an uproar. Her poodle created an uproar in the restaurant.

See also: uproar

make a scene and create a scene

Fig. to make a public display or disturbance. When John found a fly in his drink, he started to create a scene. Oh, John, please don't make a scene. Just forget about it.

See also: make, scene

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cause/create a stir

to cause a lot of interest and excitement Emma caused quite a stir in her little black dress last night.

See also: cause, stir

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cause a stir also create a stir

to cause unusual interest or excitement Rufus was arguing with his older daughter about her boyfriend, and it caused a stir in the family.

Usage notes: often used with quite for emphasis: Her latest novel has created quite a stir.

See also: cause, stir

make a scene

to be loud and rude with other people or in public My father made a scene, then raced upstairs, slamming the door so hard that the window broke.

See also: make, scene