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to rub somebody the wrong way
01
to cause someone to become extremely angry or upset without intending to
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Disapproving
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "rub someone the wrong way" and when to use it?
The origin of the phrase "rub someone the wrong way" is not definitively known, but it likely stems from the literal act of rubbing a surface in the opposite direction of its natural grain, which can cause discomfort or irritation. This idiom is frequently used to express the feeling of being annoyed, bothered, or unsettled by someone or something that doesn't resonate well with one's own personality, values, or expectations. It can apply to small everyday annoyances as well as more significant instances of interpersonal conflict or discord.
Example
I know their behavior will continue to rub her the wrong way.
Jenny's frank demeanor sometimes rubbed people the wrong way, but her friends valued her honesty.
The persistent negativity will be rubbing them the wrong way throughout the project.
The insensitive comment really rubbed him the wrong way.
The ongoing complaints are rubbing everyone the wrong way.
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