What does “Thorn in your side” mean?
"A thorn in your side" means something or someone that constantly annoys or irritates you.
What context can I use the in?
Example
Her little brother is always a thorn in her side.
Example
That noisy neighbor is a constant thorn in my side.
Example
The never-ending paperwork is a thorn in their side at work
Is “Thorn in your side” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Thorn in your side” 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 “Thorn in your side” effectively in context?
You can use "Thorn in your side" to describe something or someone that is a constant source of annoyance or irritation. It emphasizes the persistent nature of the annoyance. For example, if you have a coworker who always interrupts you during meetings, you might say, 'He's such a thorn in my side.'
- 1Family
Her little brother is always a thorn in her side. He constantly bothers her and disrupts her activities.
- 2Neighborhood
That noisy neighbor is a constant thorn in my side. Their loud music and parties disturb my peace and quiet.
- 3Work
The never-ending paperwork is a thorn in their side at work. It causes frustration and delays in their daily tasks.
Similar phrases to “Thorn in your side”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Thorn in your side” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Thorn in your side" is derived from a biblical reference. In the Bible, the Apostle Paul mentions a 'thorn in the flesh' that he had to endure. The phrase has since evolved to mean something or someone that constantly annoys or irritates you.
Is “Thorn in your side” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Thorn in your side" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their annoyance or frustration with someone or something that consistently bothers them.
What tone does “Thorn in your side” have?
"Thorn in your side" conveys a tone of irritation and frustration. It is used to express a negative sentiment towards the source of annoyance.
Can “Thorn in your side” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Thorn in your side" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that describes an ongoing annoyance. You can use it in 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, 'That noisy neighbor is a constant thorn in my side.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Ugh, "thorn in my side"!' to express frustration.
