burr in one's saddle
Nagging minor problem
A burr in one's saddle is a source of persistent irritation or annoyance—something that won't let you rest easy.
The image comes from horseback riding: a burr (a prickly seed pod) caught under the saddle would chafe constantly, making both horse and rider agitated.
What's the burr in your saddle today?
Often appears as burr under one's saddle.
- pet peevePersonal source of irritation
- fly in the ointmentSmall flaw spoiling everything
- sore spotSensitive topic or area
- disgruntlementSulky dissatisfaction with circumstances
- vexationFrustrated annoyance
thorn in one's side · exasperation · rub the wrong way · sticking point · irritation · aggravation · bee in one's bonnet · pain in the neck · pain in the rear · bugbear · chip on one's shoulder · axe to grind · annoyance · chagrin · monkey on one's back · discontent · bone to pick · gripe
burr in one's saddlecomfort
Ease or soothing relief
soothing balm · peace of mind · relief · ease · contentment
burr in one's saddlecatastrophe
Devastating, large-scale misfortune
emergency · disaster · calamity · existential threat · showstopper
burr in one's saddlesmooth sailing
Untroubled progress forward
clear skies · no worries · easy street · plain sailing · clear path
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