English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Cold shoulder
Meaning
The idiom "cold shoulder" means to deliberately ignore or give a cold, indifferent response to someone. It can also mean to refuse to acknowledge someone's presence or to deliberately snub someone.
Usage
- She was hurt when her colleague gave her a cold shoulder during the meeting.
- The new employee was ignored by his colleagues on his first day at work.
- When he asked for help, his friend gave him a cold shoulder and walked away.
- She was snubbed by her sister who refused to acknowledge her presence at the party.
- The manager gave the employees a cold shoulder during their performance review.
Roots and History
The idiom "cold shoulder" dates back to the 16th century, but its exact origin is unclear. One theory suggests that it comes from the practice of giving a cold, indifferent response to someone by turning away or crossing one's arms. Another theory suggests that it comes from the practice of serving cold meat instead of warm, as a sign of disrespect or indifference. Over time, the idiom has evolved to include a wider range of situations and meanings.
Synonyms in English
- Give someone the cold shoulder.
- Ignore someone.
- Snub someone.
- Treat someone with indifference.
- Show someone the back of your hand.
Synonyms in other languages
- In Spanish, "dar la espalda" means to give someone the cold shoulder or ignore them.
- In French, "tuer le feu" means to snub someone or show indifference.
- In German, "den Rücken stehen" means to ignore someone or turn one's back on them.
- In Italian, "fare la testa baia" means to give someone the cold shoulder or ignore them.
- In Japanese, "挑戦する" means to snub or show indifference towards someone.