DIG AT Meaning and
Definition
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The phrasal verb "dig at" is used to express the act of making a subtle or indirect criticism or insult towards someone or something. It involves delivering a comment or making a statement that may seem lighthearted or innocent on the surface, but contains an underlying negative intent or mockery. "Dig at" is colloquially used to describe instances where someone intentionally tries to belittle or subtly undermine others through their words or actions.
When a person "digs at" someone, they are essentially aiming to provoke or annoy by subtly disparaging them, usually in a playful or sarcastic manner. This can be through the use of witty remarks, clever wordplay, or teasing in a way that is meant to diminish the other person's value or reputation. "Digging at" someone involves implying flaws, mocking weaknesses, or highlighting embarrassing situations in their life.
"Dig at" can also be used in a broader sense to describe making a critical or mocking comment towards a particular idea, group, or institution. It is essentially an act of snide remarking or hidden mockery.
It is important to note that "dig at" is often employed in social situations where banter and teasing occur, but can have negative effects if taken too far or done with malicious intent.
Common Misspellings for DIG AT
- xig at
- cig at
- fig at
- rig at
- eig at
- dug at
- djg at
- dkg at
- dog at
- d9g at
- d8g at
- dib at
- dih at
- diy at
- dit at
- dig zt
- dig st
- dig wt
- dig qt
- dig ar
Etymology of DIG AT
The word "dig" has various meanings and origins, making it difficult to pinpoint its exact etymology in the context of "dig at". However, we can explore the origins of both "dig" and "at" separately.
"Dig" as a verb originated from Middle English "diggen", which can be traced back to Old English "dyggan" meaning "to dig, excavate". This Old English term has Germanic roots and is related to words like "dike" and "ditch". The sense of physically excavating the ground has remained constant throughout the centuries.
In contemporary usage, "dig" has further developed to metaphorically refer to verbal or symbolic activities resembling physical digging. This metaphorical usage, which includes phrases like "dig at" and "dig into", likely emerged from associating the action of digging with probing, investigating, or criticizing.
Idioms with the word DIG AT
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take a dig at sm
The idiom "take a dig at someone" means to make a sly or sarcastic comment or action directed at another person in order to criticize or mock them. It involves subtly or indirectly insulting or ridiculing someone.
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dig at sm or sth
The idiom "dig at someone or something" means to make a sarcastic comment or subtly criticize someone or something. It is usually done in a lighthearted or playful manner, often intending to highlight a flaw or provoke a reaction in a joking manner.
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dig at (someone or something)
The idiom "dig at (someone or something)" means to make a sly or subtle critical comment or gesture towards someone or something, usually with an intention to mock or provoke a reaction. It can be used to express sarcasm, ridicule, or disapproval towards the targeted person or thing.
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take a dig at
The idiom "take a dig at" means to make a critical or disparaging remark about someone or something in a subtle or indirect manner. It typically involves a sarcastic or snide comment aimed at mocking or belittling someone.
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take a dig at someone
The idiom "take a dig at someone" refers to making a subtle or indirect remark or comment, often with a hint of sarcasm or criticism, aimed at someone in order to provoke or mock them.
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dig at
To make a sarcastic or critical remark about someone or something.
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