Get on nerves

Meaning

The idiom "get on nerves" means to do something that irritates or annoys someone a lot, causing them to become upset or tense. It can also mean to be persistent or stubborn in doing something that drives others crazy.

Usage

• "Just stop getting on my nerves by always interrupting me!"
• "I'm getting so fed up with these constant phone calls from telemarketers, it's driving me nuts."
• "Don't get on my nerves by leaving dirty dishes in the sink, I have enough stress already."
• "My colleague always gets on my nerves by talking loudly and chewing gum at the same time."
• "Stop getting on my nerves by always asking me for directions, I know where I'm going!" The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a variety of situations, from everyday life to more formal settings. The intensity of the annoyance can also vary depending on the speaker's tone and body language.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom "get on nerves" is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 18th century. One theory suggests that it comes from the idea that nerve damage can cause physical pain and discomfort, which is similar to the emotional discomfort caused by someone's behavior. Another theory suggests that it originated from the idea of nerves being stretched or tensed up, which can lead to irritation or annoyance.

Synonyms in English

• Drive someone crazy
• Get on one's last nerve
• Irritate someone to no end
• Pester someone relentlessly
• Annoysome behavior

Synonyms in other languages

• Ennerder (German) - This word means "to become angry" and is often used in a figurative sense to describe someone who has been annoyed or irritated by something.
• Irritar (Italian) - This word means "to irritate" and is used in a similar way to the English idiom.
• Pester (Spanish) - This word means "to bother" or "to harass" and is often used to describe someone who persists in annoying someone else.
• Innerlich stören (German) - This phrase translates to "to disturb internally" and is often used to describe a feeling of annoyance or irritation that comes from within.
• 剥ぐれる (Japanese) - This phrase means "to become frustrated" and is often used in a similar way to the English idiom.

Similar Idioms

• a whole new ball game

• apple of eye

• as well as