Get on Someone’s Nerves – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever been around someone who talks too loudly, taps their pen constantly, or repeats the same joke over and over? After a while, it might start to really bother you. In English, we say that person gets on your nerves! This idiom is a natural way to describe someone or something that’s annoying or irritating you.
What Does “Get on Someone’s Nerves” Mean?
“Get on someone’s nerves” means to annoy or irritate someone—often repeatedly or over time. Think of it like a small, constant buzz that won’t stop; it’s not dangerous, but it’s hard to ignore! The phrase isn’t about actual nerves in your body—it’s just a vivid way to say something is getting under your skin.
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual conversations with friends, family, or coworkers when you want to express that someone’s behavior is bothering you. It’s common when talking about habits, sounds, attitudes, or repeated actions that feel irritating. This idiom is informal and slightly emotional—so it’s best for relaxed settings, not formal writing or polite complaints.
Example Sentences
- His constant whistling really gets on my nerves.
- Don’t chew so loudly—it’s getting on my nerves!
- That alarm sound gets on everyone’s nerves after a while.
- She’s sweet, but her sarcasm sometimes gets on my nerves.
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “You seem stressed. Everything okay?”
Jamie: “Yeah… my roommate leaves dirty dishes everywhere. It’s really getting on my nerves.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use this phrase to describe serious anger or danger. It’s about mild to moderate annoyance—not rage or emergencies.
❌ Don’t say: “The fire alarm got on my nerves during the building fire.” (That’s a serious situation!)
✅ Do say: “His loud phone calls in the office really get on my nerves.”
Practice Tip
Think of a small habit that bothers you—like someone clicking a pen or humming off-key. Say out loud: “That really gets on my nerves!” It helps you use the idiom naturally.
Final Note
Now you can use “get on someone’s nerves” like a confident English speaker! It’s a relatable, everyday way to talk about little annoyances. Keep using it in real conversations—and remember, everyone gets on someone’s nerves sometimes!