虫むしを殺ころす

expression, godan verb (-su)

control one's temper; suppress one's anger

Idiomatic expression literally meaning 'to kill the insect', used figuratively for holding back irritation or anger. Often used in the negative or as advice.

• あの人ひとの話はなしを聞きいていると、虫むしを殺ころすのが大たい変へんだ。

  Listening to that person talk, it's hard to control my temper.

• 上じょう司しに文もん句くを言いわれたが、虫むしを殺ころして我が慢まんした。

  My boss complained to me, but I held back my anger and endured it.