Rub it in
phrase
To talk about something too much, especially in a way that is irritating or disrespectful to the one affected negatively by the discussion.
I know how well your exams went, you don't need to rub it in!
Often appears as...
- don't rub it in
- no need to rub it in
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To apply a substance onto a surface with a firm circular motion.
You need to rub it in properly if you want the lotion to work effectively.
Often appears as...
- rub it in gently
- rub it in thoroughly
phrase
To talk about something too much, especially in a way that is irritating or disrespectful to the one affected negatively by the discussion.
I know how well your exams went, you don't need to rub it in!
Often appears as...
- don't rub it in
- no need to rub it in
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To apply a substance onto a surface with a firm circular motion.
You need to rub it in properly if you want the lotion to work effectively.
Often appears as...
- rub it in gently
- rub it in thoroughly
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact
This phrase can hurt feelings by highlighting someone's misfortune or failures.
After losing the game, having the victory constantly mentioned really rubbed it in.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversational Context
Used among friends or acquaintances to point out they're being irritating by overemphasizing.
Okay, I get it, I was wrong - don't rub it in.
Pro Tip 3/3Informality
The phrase is casual and may not be suitable for formal or professional settings.
In a business meeting, instead of saying 'don't rub it in,' you might say, 'Let's not dwell on the past.'
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact
This phrase can hurt feelings by highlighting someone's misfortune or failures.
After losing the game, having the victory constantly mentioned really rubbed it in.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversational Context
Used among friends or acquaintances to point out they're being irritating by overemphasizing.
Okay, I get it, I was wrong - don't rub it in.
Pro Tip 3/3Informality
The phrase is casual and may not be suitable for formal or professional settings.
In a business meeting, instead of saying 'don't rub it in,' you might say, 'Let's not dwell on the past.'
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact
This phrase can hurt feelings by highlighting someone's misfortune or failures.
After losing the game, having the victory constantly mentioned really rubbed it in.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversational Context
Used among friends or acquaintances to point out they're being irritating by overemphasizing.
Okay, I get it, I was wrong - don't rub it in.
Pro Tip 3/3Informality
The phrase is casual and may not be suitable for formal or professional settings.
In a business meeting, instead of saying 'don't rub it in,' you might say, 'Let's not dwell on the past.'
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