A2Nature

Jemandem ein Dorn im Auge sein

To be a constant source of annoyance, irritation, or an obstacle to someone

In German

Jemandem ein Dorn im Auge sein

YAY-man-dem ayn DORN im OU-ge zayn

Literal Translation

To be a thorn in someone's eye

Meaning

To be a constant source of annoyance, irritation, or an obstacle to someone.

Equivalent:"To be a thorn in someone's side"

Origin:This idiom has biblical roots, appearing in Numbers 33:55 and Joshua 23:13, referring to hostile neighbors who cause trouble.

Example Sentences

1
Sein Erfolg ist seinem Rivalen schon lange ein Dorn im Auge.
His success has long been a thorn in his rival's side.
2
Die neue Regelung ist der Bevölkerung ein Dorn im Auge.
The new regulation is a thorn in the side of the population.

FAQ

How do you say "To be a constant source of annoyance, irritation, or an obstacle to someone" in German?

"To be a constant source of annoyance, irritation, or an obstacle to someone" in German is "Jemandem ein Dorn im Auge sein" (YAY-man-dem ayn DORN im OU-ge zayn). Example: Sein Erfolg ist seinem Rivalen schon lange ein Dorn im Auge..

To undermine someone's argument, enthusiasm, or advantage by preemptively addressing their point or taking away their basis for action

Jemandem den Wind aus den Segeln nehmen

YAY-man-dem den VINT aus den ZAY-geln NAY-men

A great commotion or fuss over something insignificant; a tempest in a teapot

Sturm im Wasserglas

SHTURM im VAS-er-glas

To give up; to throw in the towel

Die Flinte ins Korn werfen

Dee FLIN-teh ins KORN VER-fen

To calm a tense or difficult situation; to smooth things over

Die Wogen glätten

Dee VOH-gen GLET-ten