Cut off your nose to spite your face

Pro Tip 1/3

Emotional Impact

The phrase often implies strong emotions like anger or spite that lead to self-harmful decisions.

In a fit of rage, he smashed his own phone to get back at his brother, essentially cutting off his nose to spite his face.

Pro Tip 2/3

Figurative Use

Remember, this idiom is hyperbolic and not to be taken literally. It emphasizes the irrationality of the action.

Refusing to study because he's mad at the teacher, he's just cutting off his nose to spite his face.

Pro Tip 3/3

Avoid In Arguments

Using this phrase in arguments can seem accusing and escalate conflict. Use it cautiously.

Telling her she's cutting off her nose to spite her face mid-argument might just make things worse.