give someone grief
Make life difficult
To give someone grief is to criticize, hassle, or cause them trouble: My boss gave me grief about being late, Stop giving me grief—I said I was sorry.
The phrase suggests persistent or undeserved criticism rather than a single complaint.
It can range from mild teasing among friends to genuine harassment.
irritate
Cause mild anger
badger · harass · hassle · hound · needle · tease · taunt · provoke · aggravate · bug
trouble
Difficulty or distress
- distressSevere anxiety or suffering
- hardshipSuffering from difficult circumstances
- sufferingSustained experience of distress
anguish · torment · ordeal · tribulation · woe · affliction · misery · pain · stress · heartache
scold
Rebuke harshly
- rebukeExpress sharp disapproval
- berateCriticize severely and lengthily
- chastiseReprimand severely for wrongdoing
reprimand · admonish · chide · lecture · upbraid · castigate · censure · reproach · tell off · dress down
give someone griefgive someone a break
Show mercy or patience
praise · encourage · comfort · cut someone slack · reassure
give someone griefhelp out
Provide needed support
facilitate · lend a hand · assist · pave the way · grease the wheels
give, gives, given, giving, giver, givers, someone, some, grief