Reopen old wounds

usgb
verb phrase

To bring up or talk about a painful or difficult past event.

I didn't mean to reopen old wounds by discussing our father. I'm sorry if I upset you.
Visual representation of "reopen old wounds" - To bring up or talk about a painful or difficult past event.

Often appears as...

  • don't reopen old wounds
  • trying to reopen old wounds

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "reopen old wounds"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Impact

The phrase often relates to emotional pain so use it sensitively to avoid upsetting someone.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
I steered the conversation away to not reopen old wounds related to her divorce.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Usage

Remember, this phrase is usually a metaphor for emotional, not physical, pain.

Illustration for Metaphorical Usage
Discussing the failed project might reopen old wounds for the team.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conversation Caution

Use it when acknowledging that a subject might cause distress by reminding someone of the past.

Illustration for Conversation Caution
Before we delve into this topic any further, I want to be careful not to reopen old wounds.
Visual representation of the word "Reopen old wounds"

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