Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to-twist-the-knife
idiom
/tə twɪst ðə naɪf/
Definition
To deliberately make someone feel worse in a difficult situation or to inflict emotional pain.
Examples
- When John lost the election, his opponent came out with harsh comments that felt like twisting the knife.
- She really twisted the knife by reminding him of his past mistakes when he was already upset.
Meaning
This phrase refers to the act of intensifying someone’s suffering, especially when they are already in a vulnerable or painful position. It often implies a sense of cruelty or insensitivity.
Synonyms
- to rub salt in the wound
- to add insult to injury
- to deepen the hurt
