How to Pronounce "a kick in the pants"
expression
uh KIK in thuh PANTS
uh KIK in thuh PAHNTs
Definition
A sudden event or criticism that pushes someone to improve, work harder, or change their behavior. It can be a strong motivation or a sharp warning.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈkɪk/ /ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈpænts
British English
æɪ/ /kˈɪk/ /ˈɪn/ /ðə, ði/ /pˈɑːnts
Simplified Pronunciation
US
uh KIK in thuh PANTS
UK
uh KIK in thuh PAHNTs
Listen in Context
Getting a bad grade was a kick in the pants for him to study harder.
Losing his job gave him a kick in the pants to try something new.
His coach's harsh words were a kick in the pants to train more seriously.
Honestly, that rejection letter was a kick in the pants, but it made me improve my resume.