A red rag to a bull
Idioms & PhrasesHARD
something that provokes anger or strong reaction
A red rag to a bull
Idioms & PhrasesHARD
something that provokes anger or strong reaction
Learning Progress
Examples
"The new safety rules were a red rag to a bull for the old guard who wanted no change."
"Her sarcastic remark was a red rag to a bull and he exploded in response."
Mnemonic Trick
Visual: imagine waving a red rag to provoke a bull (metaphor).
Cultural Context
British origin; used metaphorically to indicate provocation.
Source: Idioms & PhrasesAdded: 11/13/2025
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