What does “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” mean?
"Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face" means to repeatedly remind someone of their mistake or failure in a way that is intended to make them feel bad or embarrassed.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
He always rubs his success in my face whenever we meet.
He always rubs his success in my face whenever we meet.
Example
She loves to rub her promotion in her coworker's face.
She loves to rub her promotion in her coworker's face.
Example
I don't want to rub my good grades in my friend's face, so I keep it to myself
I don't want to rub my good grades in my friend's face, so I keep it to myself
Is “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” 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 “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” effectively in context?
You can use "Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face" to describe the act of repeatedly reminding someone of their mistake or failure in a way that is intended to make them feel bad or embarrassed. It is often used in a negative context to express resentment or frustration towards someone who is gloating or being overly boastful. For example, if a friend constantly brags about their accomplishments, you might say, 'He always rubs his success in my face whenever we meet.'
- 1Personal Relationships
She loves to rub her promotion in her coworker's face.
She loves to rub her promotion in her coworker's face.
- 2Academic Achievements
I don't want to rub my good grades in my friend's face, so I keep it to myself.
I don't want to rub my good grades in my friend's face, so I keep it to myself.
- 3Competitive Environments
After winning the game, he couldn't resist rubbing his victory in his opponent's face.
After winning the game, he couldn't resist rubbing his victory in his opponent's face.
Similar phrases to “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face”:
To excessively and visibly show one's happiness or satisfaction, especially at the misfortune of others
Example
She couldn't help but gloat when she won the competition.
She couldn't help but gloat when she won the competition.
To provoke or mock someone with insulting or scornful remarks
Example
The bullies taunted him about his appearance.
The bullies taunted him about his appearance.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face" is unknown.
Is “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their frustration or annoyance towards someone who is being overly boastful or insensitive.
What tone does “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” have?
"Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face" conveys a tone of resentment or frustration. It is often used to describe a behavior that is considered rude or hurtful.
Can “Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Rub (Something) in Someone’s Face" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations among friends, family, or colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal situations to express strong disapproval or criticism.
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 rubs his success in my face whenever we meet.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Stop rubbing it in!' to express annoyance or frustration.
