sore point
Topic causing discomfort
A sore point is a subject that provokes irritation, defensiveness, or emotional discomfort when raised.
Like a physical sore that hurts when touched, a sore point is sensitive territory best avoided: Don't mention the divorce—it's a sore point.
Also called a sore spot.
Persistent bitter displeasure
- grudgePersistent resentment toward someone
- complaintExpression of discontent
- gripeVoice minor displeasure
- beefBovine meat for eating
bone of contention · issue · animosity · bitterness · hurt feelings · bad blood · chip on shoulder · axe to grind
Cultural or social prohibition
- triggerWhat initiates action
- hot buttonControversy-prone subject matter
- nerveSignal-carrying body fiber
- tender spotPainful area when touched
Assertion or rivalry
- disagreementAbsence of shared opinion
- frictionResistance between touching surfaces
- conflictOpposition between parties
- tensionStretched or strained state
Deficiency in force
- soft spotEmotional vulnerability or fondness
- chink in armorExploitable flaw in defenses
- exposed flankUndefended lateral position
- susceptibilityLiability to influence
insecurity · shortcoming · flaw · deficiency · liability · blind spot · gap · fragility
resentment
Persistent bitter displeasure
- grudgePersistent resentment toward someone
- complaintExpression of discontent
- gripeVoice minor displeasure
beef · bone of contention · issue · animosity · bitterness · hurt feelings · bad blood · chip on shoulder · axe to grind · festering wound
taboo
Cultural or social prohibition
- triggerWhat initiates action
- hot buttonControversy-prone subject matter
- nerveSignal-carrying body fiber
contention
Assertion or rivalry
- disagreementAbsence of shared opinion
- frictionResistance between touching surfaces
- conflictOpposition between parties
weakness
Deficiency in force
- soft spotEmotional vulnerability or fondness
- chink in armorExploitable flaw in defenses
- exposed flankUndefended lateral position
susceptibility · insecurity · shortcoming · flaw · deficiency · liability · blind spot · gap · fragility
- disputesargument, beef, bicker, clash, conflict
- annoyancesannoyance, annoyances, irritations, irritation, nuisance
sore pointpoint of pride
Cherished personal accomplishment
badge of honor · fond memory · strong suit · bright spot · triumph
sore pointicebreaker
Tension-easing social activity
neutral ground · common ground · crowd-pleaser · easy conversation · small talk
sore, appoint, pointer, soreness, sores, poignant, point, sorer, sorest