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Nag - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

To nag means to repeatedly annoy or criticize someone, often about small things. It usually involves persistent complaining or urging someone to do something they may not want to do.

nag

/næɡ/ /næɡ/

Definition:

To repeatedly annoy or criticize someone, often about trivial matters.

Synonyms:

pester, harass, badger, henpeck

Part of Speech:

verb, noun

Antonyms:

praise, encourage

Common Collocations:

nagging doubt, nagging pain, nagging feeling, nagging wife

Derivatives:

nagger, naggingly

Usage Tips:

Use "nag" to describe persistent complaining or urging, often in a negative context.

Common Phrases:

nagging doubt, stop nagging me, like a nagging toothache

Etymology:

Originated from Old Norse "gnaga," meaning to complain or find fault persistently.

Examples:

  • 1. She always nags me to clean my room.
  • 2. His constant nagging made her frustrated.
  • 3. Don’t nag your brother about his homework.
  • 4. I have a nagging pain in my back.

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