rub it in (idiom)
2016.11.09
Meaning:
The basic meaning of ‘rub something in’ is to use a round-and-round motion to push something in. For example, we rub lotion into our skin. However, as an idiom, it has a negative nuance. Imagine you are unhappy or embarrassed about something. Imagine your friend keeps talking and talking about that thing. Your friend is ‘rubbing it in’ - ie rubbing the unhappiness (or other negative feeling) in. ‘To rub it in’ means ‘to keep talking about something that makes someone (who already feels bad) feel worse’.
Example:
Fiona has gained weight and she’s sad about it. When her mother keeps talking about diets she feels like her mother is rubbing it in.
A: Well, I’m going on holiday now. Look at the photo of my hotel on the beach!
B: Don’t rub it in! I’m jealous! I have to work really hard next week.
Talking Point(s):
Has anyone ever told you, ‘Don’t rub it in!’?