rubbing in
Making it worse
To rub something in is to emphasize or repeatedly mention something unpleasant, especially someone's mistake or misfortune, in a way that makes them feel worse: I know I failed—you don't have to rub it in.
The image is of working something into a wound.
Rubbing in can also be literal—massaging a substance into skin or fabric until absorbed.
- massagingTherapeutic manual manipulation
- massage oilLubricant for bodywork
- body lotionTopical skin hydrator
- abradeErode through friction
- kneadingManual dough development
pointing out · sore spot · needling · friction · emphasizing · polishing · grinding · scouring · reiterating · scrubbing · chafing · elbow grease · gloating · applying · taunting · stressing · highlighting · absorbing
- bakingbaking, bread baking, cake decorating, mixing, whisking
- mixingmix, stir, blend, shake, combine
- pie techniquesblind baking, par-baking, pre-baking, crimping, fluting
rubbing inletting go
Releasing one's grasp
moving on · glossing over · downplaying · overlooking · forgiving
rubbing inconsoling
Giving solace to another
comforting · sympathizing · reassuring · forgiving · empathizing