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piece of work
01
used to refer to someone who is extremely unpleasant and overall a difficult person to deal with
What is the origin of the idiom "piece of work" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "piece of work" is uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the 1800s and is believed to have evolved from the broader sense of "work," which can mean a task or creation that requires effort and skill. This phrase is often used to express frustration, surprise, or admiration about someone's character or behavior.
Example
He's a difficult piece of work.
My neighbor is a real piece of work.
He is a real piece of work, always causing trouble and never taking responsibility for his actions.
She's quite a piece of work - incredibly talented and driven.
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