Phrase of the day

Discover a new phrase each day to use in your English! These are special phrases and sayings that English speakers use all the time, but you don't often see these phrases in English course books or other study material. Visit daily to learn some popular English phrases on a regular basis.
19th September 2024

A pain

We use this expression to say that someone or something annoys us.
Usage
Written: 
Yes
Spoken: 
Yes
Formal: 
No
Informal: 
Yes
Example 1
I can't stay long. I've got to prepare for a test tomorrow.
Tests are a real pain, aren't they! Good luck.
Example 2
How are you getting on with Paul?
He's a real pain, actually. He never does what I say.

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