What does “Chip on your shoulder” mean?
"Chip on your shoulder" means that someone is easily offended or holds a grudge.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He always has a chip on his shoulder and gets angry over the smallest things.
Example
She's had a chip on her shoulder ever since she lost the competition.
Example
Don't talk to him about politics, he's got a chip on his shoulder about it
Is “Chip on your shoulder” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Chip on your shoulder” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Chip on your shoulder” effectively in context?
You can use "Chip on your shoulder" to describe someone who is easily offended or holds a grudge. It implies that the person is always ready for a fight or argument. For example, if someone is always getting angry over small things, you might say, 'He always has a chip on his shoulder.'
- 1Personal Relationships
She's had a chip on her shoulder ever since she lost the competition.
- 2Social Interactions
Don't talk to him about politics, he's got a chip on his shoulder about it.
- 3Workplace
He always has a chip on his shoulder and gets angry over the smallest things.
Similar phrases to “Chip on your shoulder”:
Thin-skinned
Easily offended or sensitive to criticism
Example
He's very thin-skinned and can't handle any constructive feedback.
Hot-tempered
Easily angered or prone to anger
Example
She's known for being hot-tempered and getting into arguments easily.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Chip on your shoulder” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Chip on your shoulder" is unknown.
Is “Chip on your shoulder” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Chip on your shoulder" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone who is easily offended or holds a grudge.
What tone does “Chip on your shoulder” have?
"Chip on your shoulder" conveys a tone of negativity or defensiveness. It suggests that the person is always ready for a fight or argument.
Can “Chip on your shoulder” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Chip on your shoulder" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes a specific attitude or behavior. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He always has a chip on his shoulder and gets angry over the smallest things.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He's got a "chip on his shoulder"!' to imply that someone is easily offended.
