Reopen old wounds

Pro Tip 1/3

Emotional Impact

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

I steered the conversation away to not reopen old wounds related to her divorce.

Pro Tip 2/3

Metaphorical Usage

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

Discussing the failed project might reopen old wounds for the team.

Pro Tip 3/3

Conversation Caution

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

Before we delve into this topic any further, I want to be careful not to reopen old wounds.