rub the wrong way
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
This is ostensibly a courtesy to avoid alerting current co-workers that you are job hunting, but it means people you rub the wrong way could ding you years later.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026
While it’s hard to argue with using one word instead of five, “robust” can still rub the wrong way.
From Forbes • Feb. 5, 2013
I have no desire to rub the wrong way anyone who proves his true friendship by purchasing a copy of this Work.
From People You Know by Ade, George
He put his hand on her head and gave it a slow little rub, the wrong way, but tenderly.
From Louisiana by Burnett, Frances Hodgson
