A thorn in somebody’s flesh/side

idiom

A thing or person consistently causes annoyance, difficulty, or trouble to someone.

My noisy neighbor is a thorn in my side, I can't concentrate on my studies.
Visual representation of "a thorn in somebody’s flesh/side" - A thing or person consistently causes annoyance, difficulty, or trouble to someone.

Often appears as...

  • he is a thorn in my flesh
  • she is a thorn in my side

Usage tips

Idiomatic

idiom

A thing or person consistently causes annoyance, difficulty, or trouble to someone.

My noisy neighbor is a thorn in my side, I can't concentrate on my studies.
Visual representation of "a thorn in somebody’s flesh/side" - A thing or person consistently causes annoyance, difficulty, or trouble to someone.

Often appears as...

  • he is a thorn in my flesh
  • she is a thorn in my side

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a thorn in somebody’s flesh/side"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Consistent Irritant

Refers to ongoing issues, not a one-time problem.

Illustration for Consistent Irritant
Trying to get a visa has been a thorn in my side for months.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Emotion

Conveys a sense of frustration or irritation with a person or issue.

Illustration for Negative Emotion
My computer crashes daily, becoming a thorn in my flesh.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Metaphorical Use

Not a physical thorn, but symbolizes something bothersome.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
His constant jokes about my job have turned him into a thorn in my side.
Visual representation of the word "A thorn in somebody’s flesh/side"

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