Breathe down somebody’s neck

usgb
verb

To closely observe or monitor someone, usually causing them discomfort or stress.

My boss is always breathing down my neck about deadlines.
Visual representation of "breathe down somebody’s neck" - To closely observe or monitor someone, usually causing them discomfort or stress

Often appears as...

  • boss breathing down my neck
  • breathing down my neck about

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "breathe down somebody’s neck"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Workplace Pressure

Often used to describe supervisors or managers who closely monitor employees, causing stress.

Illustration for Workplace Pressure
I can't concentrate with the manager breathing down my neck all the time.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Privacy Invasion

Implies an uncomfortable level of scrutiny and lack of personal space.

Illustration for Privacy Invasion
Stop breathing down my neck while I'm working on this project.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Figurative Meaning

It's a metaphorical expression and doesn't involve actual physical breathing.

Illustration for Figurative Meaning
Even though he’s on vacation, it feels like his boss is still breathing down his neck.
Visual representation of the word "Breathe down somebody’s neck"

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