thorn in someone's side
Ongoing source of frustration
A thorn in someone's side is a persistent source of irritation or annoyance—something that won't go away and keeps causing trouble: The lawsuit has been a thorn in the company's side for years.
The image is of a splinter lodged in flesh, impossible to ignore.
Also appears as thorn in someone's flesh.
- aggravationState of being vexed
- pain in the assIrritating burden or person
- adversaryEnemy in conflict
- nuisanceCause of aggravation
- fly in the ointmentSmall flaw spoiling everything
frustration · annoyance · vexation · pet peeve · detractor · bone to pick · resentment · bad blood · obstacle · stick in the mud · tormenter · exasperation · critic · bugbear · impediment · pest · antagonist · bane
thorn in someone's sideblessing
Prayer seeking divine favor
godsend · comfort · balm · ray of sunshine · solace
thorn in someone's sidegodsend
Unexpected welcome help
blessing in disguise · asset · boon · ally · right-hand man
thorn in someone's sideright-hand man
Indispensable assistant
rock · ally · guardian angel · best friend · confidant