start something/anything

start something

To instigate a fight or argument. (set phrase) What are you smirking at? You want to start something, pal? Janet always tries to start something whenever she gets drunk.
See also: something, start
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

start something

Cause trouble, especially a quarrel or fight, as in Stop bringing that up-do you want to start something? [Colloquial; early 1900s]
See also: something, start
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

ˈstart something/anything

(informal) begin a fight or an argument: Don’t try to start anything with him, he has a knife. Are you trying to start something?
See also: anything, something, start
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

start something

Informal
To cause trouble.
See also: something, start
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • (you) wanna make something of it?
  • a/the feel of (something)
  • (I) wouldn't (do something) if I were you
  • a straw will show which way the wind blows
  • a horse of another
  • a horse of another color
  • a horse of another colour
  • a crack at (someone or something)
  • all right
  • all for the best