Someone or something that continually causes problems for you:
Money problems have been a thorn in our side since the day we got married.
Health inspectors are a thorn in the side of most restaurants.
The Dutch “Een luis in de pels” is “A thorn in the side” or “A thorn in the flesh.”
This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is a persistent annoyance or troublemaker.
The expression “A thorn in the side” is used to describe someone or something that consistently causes annoyance, trouble, or difficulty. Here are the key points that this expression conveys:
Persistent Annoyance: The phrase suggests that the person or thing referred to is a continual source of irritation or trouble. It’s not a one-time issue but rather an ongoing problem.
Discomfort: Just as a literal thorn in the side would cause discomfort and pain, the figurative usage conveys a sense of persistent discomfort or disruption caused by the subject being discussed.
Interference or Obstruction: The expression implies that the person or thing is interfering with the smooth functioning of a situation, project, or relationship. They are impeding progress or creating obstacles.
Difficulty to Remove: Just as removing a thorn from the body can be tricky and require care, removing the source of annoyance or trouble might also be challenging.
Frustration: Dealing with a “thorn in the side” can lead to frustration, as the annoyance or trouble caused by the person or thing can be ongoing and hard to resolve.
Perceived Negativity: The phrase generally has a negative connotation, suggesting that the person or thing is causing problems rather than contributing positively.
In summary, “A thorn in the side” captures the idea of an ongoing source of annoyance, trouble, or disruption that is difficult to remove and causes ongoing discomfort or frustration.
A “thorn in one’s side” refers to something or someone that causes irritation, discomfort, or annoyance. Some synonyms for this expression include “pain in the neck,” “nuisance,” “bother,” “irritant,” “burden,” and “hindrance.” These terms describe something that is frustrating or bothersome and can range from minor to severe disruptions in one’s life. Other synonyms may include “pet peeve,” “bugbear,” or “bête noire,” which all convey a sense of a persistent annoyance that cannot be easily removed. Regardless of the term used, having a “thorn in one’s side” can be a source of stress and frustration that needs to be addressed.
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