Do you know that itchy feeling when something bothers you and you just can’t let it slide? Maybe a friend forgot your birthday or a coworker took credit for your idea. That moment is the perfect time to use the idiom “have a bone to pick.” In this post, I’ll walk you through its meaning, origin, and some real-world examples so you can use it naturally and confidently.
Meaning of “Have a Bone to Pick”
When someone says they have a bone to pick, they usually mean:
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They want to discuss a problem or complaint.
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They feel bothered or annoyed about something.
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They need to confront someone to clear up an issue.
Simple summary:
➡️ It means you want to talk about something that upset or irritated you.
Origin of “Have a Bone to Pick”
The exact history isn’t fully documented, but the most accepted explanation comes from a literal scene: dogs chewing on bones. Dogs will pick and gnaw at a bone persistently until they’re satisfied. This became a metaphor for addressing a bothersome matter that needs attention.
By the 16th and 17th centuries, English writers were already using the phrase figuratively to mean “settle a dispute” or “address a grievance,” and it has stayed in common use ever since.
Examples in Sentences
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Casual:
“Hey, I’ve got a bone to pick with you—you finished the last slice of pizza!” -
Workplace:
“The manager said she had a bone to pick with me about yesterday’s report.” -
Family:
“My brother has a bone to pick with our cousin about that borrowed bike.” -
Formal:
“The committee has a bone to pick with the supplier due to repeated delays.” -
School setting:
“Our teacher mentioned she had a bone to pick with the class about the missing homework.” -
Light and humorous:
“I have a bone to pick with my cat—he knocked over my plant again!”
Similar Idioms or Phrases
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“Clear the air” – Talk openly to remove tension or misunderstanding.
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“Settle a score” – Resolve a past dispute or unfair situation.
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“Bring something up” – Raise a topic that needs attention.
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“Get something off your chest” – Say something that’s been emotionally bothering you.
I appreciate how this idiom softens uncomfortable conversations. It lets me raise concerns without sounding confrontational. Sometimes a touch of humor helps people stay open, and this idiom does exactly that.
The idiom “have a bone to pick” is a lively, relatable way to express the need to talk through a complaint or lingering issue. You’ve seen its meaning, explored its roots, and learned how to use it in different situations.