pick a fight
Meaning: To deliberately start an argument or fight.
Language: English
Literally: (Already vivid in English)
Example: “He always picks a fight after a couple of beers.”
Category: Daily Life
Origin: "Pick" in the sense of seeking out, as in "pick a quarrel," found from the 15th century.
Equivalents in other languages
- Portuguese: comprar briga — literally: to buy a fight
- French: Chercher des noises — literally: To look for noises
More idioms — Daily Life
- in someone's good books — In favor with someone.
- send someone packing — To dismiss someone abruptly.
- money burns a hole in someone's pocket — Someone cannot keep money without spending it.
- a parting shot — A final sharp remark made while leaving.
- set the record straight — To correct a mistaken account or misunderstanding.
- a damp squib — Something expected to be impressive that turns out a disappointment.
More English idioms
- an eye for an eye — Punishment should match the injury; revenge in kind.
- scream blue murder — To protest very loudly.
- jump through hoops — To go through many difficult or pointless steps to get something.
- grease someone's palm — To bribe someone.
- no contest — Said when one side is clearly better and there is no real competition.
- don't shoot the messenger — Don't blame the person who brings bad news.