The phrase "were stirred up" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of arousing strong emotions or causing a particular reaction in someone or a group of people. It is often employed to describe a situation where people's emotions or feelings have been provoked, incited, or agitated.
The term "stirred up" indicates the act of deliberately causing a change in someone's emotional state or influencing their attitude or behavior. It implies that an external force or incident has triggered a response that leads to heightened emotions or actions. The phrase suggests that these emotions or actions are not simply a natural occurrence but have been intentionally brought forth.
In a broader context, being "stirred up" could indicate a variety of reactions, ranging from excitement and enthusiasm to anger, unrest, or agitation. It conveys the idea that individuals or a collective group have been affected by an event, information, or circumstances in a way that has disrupted their previous state of calm or indifference.
The phrase can be used in various contexts, such as describing political rallies that generate fervent passion or protest movements that incite widespread activism. It can also be applied to personal situations, such as individuals being stirred up by news of a loved one's illness, unexpected surprises, or even rumors that create a significant impact on their emotions.
Overall, the phrase "were stirred up" conveys the notion of someone or a group having their feelings or reactions provoked, influenced, or triggered by an external factor, resulting in a demonstrable change in their emotional state or actions.
