C1idiominformalemotionsIELTS-friendly
a chip on your shoulder
USUK
a lasting anger because you feel you were treated unfairly in the past
Critical. Often with 'about': 'a chip on his shoulder about his accent'.
In context
He's had a chip on his shoulder since he wasn't chosen for the team.
She grew up poor and still has a chip on her shoulder about rich kids.
More idioms about emotions
- a bitter pill to swallowan unpleasant fact or situation that is hard to accept
- a bundle of nervesvery nervous and worried
- a knot in your stomacha tight, sick feeling in your body caused by worry or fear
- a lump in your throata tight feeling in your throat because you are so moved that you might cry
- a sight for sore eyessomeone or something you are very happy to see