What does “Pain in the neck” mean?
"Pain in the neck" means something or someone that is annoying or bothersome.
What context can I use the in?
Example
My neighbor's loud music is a real pain in the neck.
Example
Dealing with rush hour traffic is always a pain in the neck.
Example
Having to wait in long lines at the grocery store is such a pain in the neck
Is “Pain in the neck” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Pain in the neck” 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 “Pain in the neck” effectively in context?
You can use "Pain in the neck" to describe something or someone that is annoying or bothersome. It's a lighthearted way to express frustration or irritation. For example, if your friend complains about their noisy neighbors, you can say, 'Oh, I know how you feel. Noisy neighbors can be such a pain in the neck.'
- 1Living in an Apartment
My upstairs neighbor's constant stomping is a real pain in the neck.
- 2Commute
Dealing with traffic jams every day is always a pain in the neck.
- 3Running Errands
Having to wait in long lines at the grocery store is such a pain in the neck.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Pain in the neck” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Pain in the neck" is unknown.
Is “Pain in the neck” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Pain in the neck" is a very common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to vent their frustrations or to describe annoying situations or people.
What tone does “Pain in the neck” have?
"Pain in the neck" conveys a tone of mild annoyance or irritation. It's not a strong or offensive phrase, but rather a playful way to express frustration.
Can “Pain in the neck” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Pain in the neck" is a casual and informal expression. It's commonly used in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more relaxed settings.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Dealing with rush hour traffic is always a pain in the neck.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'What a "pain in the neck"!' to express annoyance.
