Rattle somebody’s cage
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Playful Teasing
The phrase can imply lighthearted teasing, not always serious annoyance.
When he teased her about her cooking, he was just trying to rattle her cage.
Pro Tip 2/3Provoking Reaction
Use it to describe actions aiming to get a reaction, often in a challenging way.
He made that comment to rattle her cage and see how she'd respond.
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Connotation
It can imply a negative intent, such as irritating someone on purpose.
Don't rattle her cage; she's had a bad day already.
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