[Idiom] RUB SOMEONE THE WRONG WAY. - Explore Engaging English Idioms: Dealing with Annoyances

Annoy accidentally.

To "rub someone the wrong way" means to irritate or annoy someone, usually unintentionally. The origins of this phrase are often disputed, but one popular theory suggests it comes from the way that petting an animal against the direction of its fur can irritate it. Similarly, a person can 'rub' you the wrong way if their actions or words are irritating or rub against your preferences or sensibilities.

Example Sentences

1. Don't rub him the wrong way.

   Don't annoy him.

2. Her sarcastic comments often rub people the wrong way.

   Her sarcastic comments often annoy people.

3. Try to approach the topic gently to avoid rubbing someone the wrong way.

   Try to approach the topic gently to avoid annoying someone.