The Village Idiom

give someone grief

The idiom "give someone grief" means to continuously cause trouble or annoyance to someone, often by criticizing or complaining about their actions or behavior.

Filed under G

In a sentence

  • My coworker always gives me grief whenever I make a mistake.
  • I can't believe my parents gave me grief for coming home late.
  • The teacher gave the students grief for not completing their homework.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "bane of someone's life" is also related to "give someone grief." It refers to something or someone that is a constant source of annoyance, irritation, or trouble for an individual. The phrase "bane of someone's life" further emphasizes the persistent and enduring nature of the grief given, suggesting that it is an ongoing burden in someone's life.

These related idioms provide additional nuances and variations to the concept of "give someone grief." They offer different perspectives and shades of meaning that further enhance our understanding of intentionally causing trouble or annoyance to someone.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.