Rub salt in the wound Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To make someone feel worse about something bad that has already happened, usually by reminding them of it or making an unkind comment.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiomatic, informal expression. Used when someone makes a bad situation feel even worse for another person, usually emotionally or verbally. Often heard as 'don't rub salt in the wound.' Not used in formal writing.
Example Sentences
Please don't rub salt in the wound by talking about my mistake again.
basic
When he lost the game, his friends rubbed salt in the wound by laughing at him.
basic
Telling her about your perfect score will rub salt in the wound after she failed the test.
basic
He was already upset about losing his job, and you really rubbed salt in the wound by bringing up his old failures.
natural
Don't rub salt in the wound—she's already having a rough day!
natural
Seeing her ex with someone new just rubbed salt in the wound after their breakup.
natural