have it in for sb

/hav ɪt ɪn fɔː ˌɛsbˈiː/

/hæv ɪt ɪn fɔːɹ ˌɛsbˈiː/

[phrase]

to have it in for sb

[PHRASE]

to deliberately keep causing problems for someone or criticizing them

What is the origin of the idiom "have it in for someone" and when to use it?

The idiom "have it in for someone" is rooted in the idea of holding a grudge or bearing ill will against a specific person. While its exact historical origin is uncertain, it likely developed from the broader concept of personal or ongoing conflicts. It is used to describe instances where someone seems to have a persistent negative attitude or intention toward someone else, often resulting in antagonistic behavior or actions.

Examples

1. I think he has it in for me or something!

2. This guy really had it in for me.

3. Stuff happens-- not because the universe has it in for us, but because they are vastly more ways for things to go wrong than to go right.

4. He probably even sleeps with a gun, and his Rottweiler already has it in for you.