# fly at

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fly-at
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to suddenly attack someone, either with physical force or by shouting at them angrily.

For teachers: to attack someone suddenly and violently, either physically or verbally; often implies a loss of temper or a sudden burst of aggression.

## Examples

- He suddenly flew at me because I broke his favorite mug.
- The dog flew at the postman as soon as the gate opened, but luckily he wasn't bitten.
- The CEO flew at his assistant for the minor clerical error, revealing the immense pressure he had been under during the merger.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She flew to him in anger." but "She flew at him in anger." — the preposition 'at' is necessary to indicate the direction of the attack; 'to' implies movement toward a destination without the sense of aggression.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a person as the object; implies a sudden, impulsive movement or outburst.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'go for' or 'attack'; 'fly at' emphasizes the suddenness and the physical or metaphorical 'leap' toward the victim.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.