pet hate
Recurring minor annoyance
A pet hate is something that particularly irritates or annoys a person—a recurring source of frustration they find especially grating: Loud chewing is a pet hate of mine.
The phrase is more common in British English; Americans typically say pet peeve.
The "pet" here suggests something personally cultivated or nursed, a grievance one keeps close.
Persistent cause of anxiety
- peeveSmall recurring annoyance
- dislikeMild negative regard
- antipathyIngrained, intense aversion
- distasteMild aversion or dislike
loathing · detestation · abhorrence · repugnance · revulsion · bête noire · animosity · hostility
Mild anger or inflammation
- frustrationDispleasure from blocked efforts
- exasperationIntense weary annoyance
- vexationFrustrated annoyance
- aggravationState of being vexed
displeasure · agitation · bother · nuisance · discomfort · discontent · resentment · indignation
bugbear
Persistent cause of anxiety
distaste · loathing · detestation · abhorrence · repugnance · revulsion · bête noire · animosity · hostility · anathema
irritation
Mild anger or inflammation
- frustrationDispleasure from blocked efforts
- exasperationIntense weary annoyance
- vexationFrustrated annoyance
aggravation · displeasure · agitation · bother · nuisance · discomfort · discontent · resentment · indignation · pique
gripe
Voice minor displeasure
- grumbleLow, discontented murmuring
- grievanceFormal claim of unfairness
- objectionExpression of disapproval
criticism · whinge · moan · beef · grouse · niggle · quibble · kvetch · carp · whine