have it in for, to ✋
Definition: To hold a grudge against. The “it” in this expression presumably means bad things in store.
A Literature Dive:
P. G. Wodehouse, in his whimsical 1927 book Meet Mr. Mulliner, illustrated this idiom perfectly: “I have had it in for that dog since the second Sunday.”
Similar Terms and Expressions 🤨:
- Bear a grudge: To harbor a persistent feeling of resentment.
- Harbor ill-will: Conceal feelings of hatred or animosity.
- Bear ill feelings: Maintain a sense of resentment or dislike.
Antonyms 🕊️:
- Forgiving: Ready to excuse and show mercy.
- Amicable: Characterized by friendly goodwill.
Humorous Quotes:
- “Holding a grudge is letting someone live rent-free in your head.” — Source Unverified but Definitely Wise
Proverbs and Common Phrases:
- Forgive and forget: It’s essential to forgive and not be haunted by past grievances.
- Water under the bridge: Past events that are no longer important.
Suggested Reads & Movies 📚🎬:
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Books:
- “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen - Filled with grudges and misunderstandings galore!
- “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas - An epic tale of revenge and grudges.
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Movies:
- “Mean Girls” – Grudges in high school never looked so fetch!
- “Kill Bill” – An intense epitome of holding and executing grudges.
Quizzes:
### Which expression means "*holding a grudge*"?
- [x] Have it in for
- [ ] Taking it to the bridge
- [ ] Showing your true colors
- [ ] Eight to the bar
> **Explanation:** "Have it in for" means holding a grudge against someone. The other options are unrelated to grudges.
### Which proverbs suggest letting go of grudges?
- [x] Forgive and forget
- [ ] Put your thinking cap on
- [ ] When pigs fly
- [x] Water under the bridge
> **Explanation:** "Forgive and forget" and "Water under the bridge" advocate moving past old grievances. The others are unrelated.
### If your friend is **harboring ill-will**, what are they doing?
- [x] Holding a grudge
- [ ] Having an embarrassing moment
- [ ] Throwing a party
- [ ] Going on vacation
> **Explanation:** Harboring ill-will refers to holding a grudge or past animosity against someone.
### Which of these is the opposite of "have it in for"?
- [x] Be amicable
- [ ] Be underhanded
- [ ] Have a beef
- [ ] Hold tight
> **Explanation:** To **"be amicable"** is the friendly counterpart to holding a grudge.
Closing Thought:
Remember, harboring a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer! Forgiveness opens doors to peace and happiness.
Until next time, stay grudge-free and prosperously cheerful!
— Pepper P. Metaphorist, October 3, 2023
