English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Pain in the neck
Meaning
The idiom "pain in the neck" is used to describe someone or something that causes a lot of hassle, inconvenience, or frustration. It can also refer to a person who is annoying, irritating, or difficult to deal with. The phrase "in my neck" implies that the problem or issue is directly affecting the speaker.
Usage
- She had to fix three different things in her car before she could finally get back on the road, and it was a real pain in the neck.
- I thought the meeting would be a breeze, but then one of my colleagues started talking way too much and it turned into a total pain in the neck.
- I can't believe I have to wear this uncomfortable suit all day - it's like a constant pain in the neck!
- The gym membership is expensive, but at least I get to work out and release some endorphins, which helps me deal with any stressors or pain in my neck.
- My family loves to tease me about my bad sense of direction, but I think they're just being a total pain in the neck.
Roots and History
The exact origin of the idiom "pain in the neck" is unclear, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that it comes from the fact that people used to hang their clothes on hooks or pegs on the wall, and if they hung their shirt too high up, it would be a pain to reach down and get something out of their pocket. Another theory suggests that it comes from the fact that people used to complain about headaches by saying "it's in my neck". However, the earliest known use of the phrase can be traced back to the 17th century, where it was used to describe someone who was difficult or unpleasant to deal with.
Synonyms in English
- Burden
- Bother
- Hassle
- Inconvenience
- Nuisance
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "peine en neck" - means "pain in the neck"
- Spanish: "mala cabeza" - means "bad headache" (but can also refer to someone who is difficult or unpleasant)
- Italian: "pianura" - means "bore"
- German: "Schmerzlichkeit" - means "painfulness"
- Chinese: "烦慕" - means "annoying"