NAG AT Meaning and
Definition
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"Nag at" is a phrasal verb that conveys the action of persistently or incessantly bothering, criticizing, or reproaching someone or something. It implies a repetitive pattern of pestering or harping on a particular topic, issue, or task. The verb "nag" originated from the Middle English "nakken," meaning to gnaw or worry persistently, and its modern usage often carries a negative connotation.
When someone "nags at" another person, they repeatedly remind or irritate them about a specific matter, typically with the intention of seeking compliance, improvement, or rectification. This persistent behavior can be exhibited in the form of verbal complaints, requests, or demands that are aimed at changing a person's actions, decisions, or ways of thinking. For example, a parent might nag at their child to complete their homework or clean their room.
"Nag at" can also describe how an issue or problem continuously preoccupies someone's thoughts or emotions, causing them distress or discomfort. This usage typically implies a state of mental or emotional unease, as the problem persists and remains unresolved.
In summary, "nag at" encompasses the act of persistently bothering, criticizing, or reproaching someone or something. It conveys a repetitive nature as well as the intention to bring about change or resolution, often associated with frustration, annoyance, or anxiety.
Common Misspellings for NAG AT
- nagget
- nagit
- naget
- NAgETT
- NAGgAT
- mag at
- jag at
- hag at
- nzg at
- nsg at
- nwg at
- nqg at
- nay at
- nat at
- nag zt
- nag st
- nag wt
- nag qt
- nag ar
- nag af
Etymology of NAG AT
The word "nag" in the phrase "nag at" originated from the Middle English term "naggen", which means "to gnaw or bite". This sense of "nag" evolved into a figurative usage, implying a persistent, insistent, or annoying behavior, similar to a nagging bite. Over time, "nag" came to specifically refer to persistently complaining or fault-finding behavior towards someone. The phrase "nag at" is the result of combining "nag" with the preposition "at", indicating the target or recipient of the nagging behavior. Therefore, "nag at" essentially means to persistently annoy, criticize, or complain to someone.
Idioms with the word NAG AT
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nag at sm (about sm or sth)
The idiom "nag at someone (about something or someone)" refers to persistently and annoyingly reminding or complaining to someone about a specific issue or topic. It implies that the person keeps harping on the subject, often in a repetitive or nagging manner, causing frustration or irritation.
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