“Nose out of joint, to have one’s/put someone’s” is an expression that dives straight into the tangled mess of human emotions, often signifying irritation or jealousy, particularly when someone’s ego gets a battering because someone else has “stolen the limelight.” It’s been in print since 1581, showing how long humanity has suffered these little bruises to our pride.
Think of the image: a dislocated nose (which, by the way, is anatomically incorrect because the nose has no joint). Yet, despite this, the expression has retained its peculiar charm. George Bernard Shaw evidently found it useful, evidenced by its appearance in his plays Major Barbara and Heartbreak House. Even in the world built by words, someone’s nose is bound to get twisted out of shape!
🎭 In Literature:
- Major Barbara by George Bernard Shaw
- Heartbreak House by George Bernard Shaw
🎥 In Movies:
- Mean Girls (2004) – The film is essentially about getting one’s nose out of joint in high school settings.
🎵 In Music:
- Jealous by Nick Jonas (2014) – While it doesn’t use the phrase, it speaks volumes about similar sentiments.
📚 In Literature:
- Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Mr. Darcy constantly puts Elizabeth Bennet’s nose out of joint until she realizes he’s not the villain she assumed.
Related Terms and Similar Expressions:
- ✅ Bent out of shape: Similar in meaning, to become very upset or angry.
- ✅ Green-eyed monster: Shame on you, jealousy! You’re exposing your true colors.
- ✅ To ruffle someone’s feathers: An emotional ruffling resulting in unease.
- ✅ Rub someone the wrong way: To irritate or annoy someone.
Synonyms:
- Irritated
- Annoyed
- Jealous
Antonyms:
- Content
- Happy
- Accepting
Proverbs and Quotes:
- Proverb: “Jealousy is the jaundice of the soul.” – John Dryden
- Quote: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” – Theodore Roosevelt
Inspirational Thought:
“Don’t let someone else’s achievements put your nose out of joint. Aspire to create your unique success and wear it with pride!”
