THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
A bone to pick
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
A complaint you want to discuss with someone about something they have done.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- I have a bone to pick with you about the dishes you left in the sink.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
I have ________ with you about the dishes you left in the sink.
Show the answer
A bone to pick — A complaint you want to discuss with someone about something they have done.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “A bone to pick” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
A complaint you want to discuss with someone about something they have done.
Compare: I have a bone to pick with you about the dishes you left in the sink.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it conversationally when introducing a grievance. It can sound confrontational, even if said playfully, so consider your relationship and tone.
More examples in context
- Maya had a bone to pick with the organiser after her name was left off the programme.
- If you have a bone to pick with me, let us discuss it privately.
Usage note
The usual pattern is “have a bone to pick with someone.” It introduces a complaint, not a general question or an actual physical fight.
A short conversation
A: I have a bone to pick with you about our shared calendar.
B: Did I forget to enter the meeting?
A: Yes, and I nearly missed it. Can we agree to update it promptly?
One more practice question
Why might someone say “I have a bone to pick with you”?
A. They want to congratulate you without raising any concern.
B. They want to discuss a complaint about something you did.
Check your answer
B. The expression introduces an annoyance or grievance.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.