Go to pieces Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Trigger The phrase often precedes an event or reason causing emotional distress. She went to pieces after failing the exam. Pro Tip 2/3Personal Crisis Use it to describe a strong emotional reaction during difficult personal situations. He went to pieces during the divorce proceedings. Pro Tip 3/3Informal Expression Appropriate for casual conversations rather than formal communication. She's likely to go to pieces if we bring up the topic.