red rag to a bull

English

Etymology

Possibly refers to the red cape used by matadors in bullfighting.

Noun

red rag to a bull (plural red rags to a bull)

Something that will enrage another particular person.
Simply mentioning the word "nationalism" to him is like a red rag to a bull.

Usage notes

This is often shortened to red rag
This is often used as a simile with like a or as a

Translations

something that will enrage another particular person

Finnish: punainen vaate härälle (idiomatic)

Italian: alquanto provocatorio m, provocazione (it) f

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