# reopen old wounds

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/reopen-old-wounds
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To cause the memory of past trauma to be recalled, resulting in renewed suffering.

## Examples

- Talking about the past only reopens old wounds.
- The reporter asked the politician about the scandal, which only served to reopen old wounds for the community.
- By insisting on a public inquiry into the failed merger, the board members inadvertently reopened old wounds that had finally begun to heal after years of corporate instability.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.