Get somebody’s goat

usgb
verb phrase

To irritate or annoy someone.

His constant complaining really gets my goat.
Visual representation of "get somebody’s goat" - To irritate or annoy someone

Often appears as...

  • his noise is getting my goat
  • her attitude really gets my goat

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "get somebody’s goat"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Charge

The phrase 'get somebody’s goat' often expresses strong irritation or frustration.

Illustration for Emotional Charge
When you leave dirty dishes out, it really gets my goat.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Casual Use

'Get somebody’s goat' is informal, best used with friends or in casual settings, not formal or professional situations.

Illustration for Casual Use
During our games, my brother's boasting always gets my goat.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Culture Sensitive

This idiom is used in English-speaking countries and might be confusing to non-English speakers without explanation.

Illustration for Culture Sensitive
If I say my noisy neighbor gets my goat, people from other countries might not understand at first.
Visual representation of the word "Get somebody’s goat"

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