What does “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” mean?
"Raise (Someone's) Hackles" means to do or say something that makes someone angry or annoyed.
What context can I use the in?
Example
His rude comment really raised my hackles.
Example
The constant interruptions during the meeting raised everyone's hackles.
Example
The unfair treatment of employees raised the union's hackles
Is “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” 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 “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” effectively in context?
You can use "Raise (Someone's) Hackles" to describe a situation where someone becomes angry or annoyed. It implies that something has provoked a strong negative reaction in someone. For example, if someone makes a rude comment, you might say, 'His rude comment really raised my hackles.'
- 1Personal Interaction
Her condescending tone raised his hackles and he responded with equal force.
- 2Group Dynamics
The constant interruptions during the meeting raised everyone's hackles and made it difficult to have a productive discussion.
- 3Labor Relations
The unfair treatment of employees raised the union's hackles and led to a strike.
Similar phrases to “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Raise (Someone's) Hackles" is unknown.
Is “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Raise (Someone's) Hackles" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations that make them or others angry or annoyed.
What tone does “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” have?
"Raise (Someone's) Hackles" conveys a tone of irritation or anger. It suggests that something has triggered a strong negative emotional response.
Can “Raise (Someone’s) Hackles” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Raise (Someone's) Hackles" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common human reaction to provocation. 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's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The unfair treatment of employees raised the union's hackles.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That comment really "raised my hackles"!' to express annoyance.
