A red rag to a bull

usgb
phrase

Something that is likely to cause anger or irritation.

Bringing up his ex-wife's name in conversation is like a red rag to a bull.
Visual representation of "a red rag to a bull" - Something that is likely to cause anger or irritation

Often appears as...

  • like a red rag to a bull
  • a red rag to a bull situation

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a red rag to a bull"
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Anger Cue

Use it to describe actions or words that will certainly make someone angry.

Illustration for Anger Cue
Telling John he's wrong is like a red rag to a bull.
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Intensity

It implies a strong, almost uncontrollable reaction, not just mild annoyance.

Illustration for Intensity
Mentioning the rival team's victory to him was like a red rag to a bull.
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Cultural Origin

Originates from bullfighting where a matador provokes a bull with a red cloth.

Illustration for Cultural Origin
Discussing politics at the dinner table is like a red rag to a bull in our family.
Visual representation of the word "A red rag to a bull"

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