Chip on your shoulder Meaning in English
expression
Definition
If someone has a chip on their shoulder, they feel angry or resentful about something, often thinking they have been treated unfairly.
Usage & Nuances
This is an informal, idiomatic expression. Used to describe someone holding a grudge or looking for a reason to argue because they feel mistreated. Common collocations: 'have a chip on your shoulder'. Not used in very formal writing.
Example Sentences
He always seems angry, like he has a chip on his shoulder.
basic
Do you have a chip on your shoulder about what happened at work?
basic
She talks to everyone as if she has a chip on her shoulder.
basic
Ever since he got passed over for that promotion, he's had a chip on his shoulder.
natural
Try not to take it personally—he just has a chip on his shoulder.
natural
You can tell he's got a chip on his shoulder about not being taken seriously.
natural