nag
B2Informal, slightly negative
Definition
Meaning
To repeatedly annoy or criticize someone about something, often in a persistent, irritating way.
Can also refer to a persistent, low-level pain or worry; or (as a noun) an old horse, especially one in poor condition.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The verb implies a repetitive, bothersome action that often fails to achieve its goal and instead creates resentment. The noun for a horse is dated and often used humorously or affectionately.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Both verb and noun meanings are used in both varieties. The noun for a horse might be slightly more common in British English.
Connotations
Equally negative for the verb in both varieties. The horse connotation is neutral-to-humorous.
Frequency
Similar frequency. The verb is common in everyday speech in both regions.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[Subject] nags [Object] about [Topic][Subject] nags [Object] to [Infinitive]A [nagging feeling/doubt/pain]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A nagging doubt”
- “Nag at the back of your mind”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare. 'The manager kept nagging the team about the deadlines.'
Academic
Very rare, considered too informal.
Everyday
Common, especially in discussions about relationships, chores, or habits.
Technical
Not used.
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- My first car was a real old nag, but it got me from A to B.
- He's got a nagging suspicion that he left the oven on.
American English
- She felt a constant nag in her lower back after the workout.
- That doubt is a real nag, isn't it?
verb
British English
- She'll nag him about taking the bins out until he finally does it.
- I wish you'd stop nagging, I said I'd fix it this weekend.
American English
- He's always nagging me to clean my room.
- Don't nag your brother about his grades.
adverb
British English
- (Rarely used as a standalone adverb) 'She asked naggingly.'
American English
- (Rarely used as a standalone adverb) 'He complained naggingly about the noise.'
adjective
British English
- She has a nagging cough that won't go away.
- A nagging worry kept him awake.
American English
- He was plagued by a nagging headache all afternoon.
- The nagging feeling that she'd forgotten something was correct.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My mum nags me to do my homework.
- Stop nagging!
- He's always nagging his children to tidy their rooms.
- I have a nagging pain in my shoulder.
- Despite her nagging, he continued to leave his clothes on the floor.
- A nagging doubt prevented her from fully trusting the plan.
- The constant nagging about minor details eroded morale within the department.
- The novel explores the protagonist's nagging guilt over a past decision.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a GNAT buzzing around your head repeatedly – it's annoying and persistent, just like someone who NAGs.
Conceptual Metaphor
CRITICISM IS A PERSISTENT PHYSICAL ANNOYANCE (e.g., 'nagging pain').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'но́га' (leg/foot).
- The Russian 'пилить' (to saw) is a close colloquial equivalent for the verb.
- The noun for a horse ('кляча', 'лошадёнка') is a separate meaning.
Common Mistakes
- Using it in formal writing.
- Incorrect preposition: 'nag on someone' (correct: 'nag at someone' or just 'nag someone').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'nag' LEAST appropriate?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when used as a verb meaning to criticize or pester. As a noun for a horse or to describe a feeling, it is neutral.
It is very informal and can sound unprofessional. Terms like 'remind persistently', 'press', or 'urge' are better alternatives in business writing.
'Remind' is neutral. 'Nag' implies the reminding is repetitive, annoying, and often ineffective, causing irritation.
It is dated but understood, often used for humorous or affectionate effect. The verb meaning is far more common in modern English.