ENGLISH
REFERENCE

have a bone to pick

idiom
Meaning

To have a complaint or grievance (with somebody); to have a contentious issue to discuss.


Examples
SIMPLE

I have a bone to pick with you about the dishes.

CONTEXTUAL

He waited for his brother after dinner because he had a bone to pick regarding the broken window.

COMPLEX

The senator requested a private meeting with the minister, as he had a bone to pick concerning the recent changes to the regional budget.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bone hard

    As hard as a bone, rock hard.

  2. 02

    bone in her teeth

    (of a boat or ship) A prominent bow wave (as a result of high speed).

  3. 03

    bone in the throat

    A source of continuing annoyance; a hindrance.

  4. 04

    bone of contention

    Something that continues to be disputed; something on which no agreement can be reached.

  5. 05

    breed in the bone

    To establish or ingrain firmly within someone's nature.

  6. 06

    captain's pick

    A decision made by a leader without consulting others.

  7. 07

    chill to the bone

    To make someone extremely cold, or to be extremely cold.

  8. 08

    funny bone

    The ulnar nerve in the elbow, which, when hit, causes a tingling sensation.

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