A sore point
noun
A topic that makes someone upset or angry because it is difficult or unpleasant for them.
Don't mention his recent job loss, it's a sore point.
Often appears as...
- hitting a sore point
- touch on a sore point
Usage tips
Idiomatic
noun
A topic that makes someone upset or angry because it is difficult or unpleasant for them.
Don't mention his recent job loss, it's a sore point.
Often appears as...
- hitting a sore point
- touch on a sore point
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Sensitivity
Use 'a sore point' with care, as it refers to subjects that might cause emotional distress or provoke an argument.
I avoided talking about the divorce since I knew it was a sore point for him.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversation Caution
When discussing sensitive issues, 'a sore point' alerts listeners to tread carefully to avoid upsetting someone.
Be cautious when you discuss her performance; it's a sore point.
Pro Tip 3/3Context Importance
Understanding the situation or history behind 'a sore point' helps to grasp why the topic is sensitive.
His lack of promotion is a sore point because he's worked here the longest.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Sensitivity
Use 'a sore point' with care, as it refers to subjects that might cause emotional distress or provoke an argument.
I avoided talking about the divorce since I knew it was a sore point for him.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversation Caution
When discussing sensitive issues, 'a sore point' alerts listeners to tread carefully to avoid upsetting someone.
Be cautious when you discuss her performance; it's a sore point.
Pro Tip 3/3Context Importance
Understanding the situation or history behind 'a sore point' helps to grasp why the topic is sensitive.
His lack of promotion is a sore point because he's worked here the longest.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Sensitivity
Use 'a sore point' with care, as it refers to subjects that might cause emotional distress or provoke an argument.
I avoided talking about the divorce since I knew it was a sore point for him.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversation Caution
When discussing sensitive issues, 'a sore point' alerts listeners to tread carefully to avoid upsetting someone.
Be cautious when you discuss her performance; it's a sore point.
Pro Tip 3/3Context Importance
Understanding the situation or history behind 'a sore point' helps to grasp why the topic is sensitive.
His lack of promotion is a sore point because he's worked here the longest.
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