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Region: General | Usage example: I have a bone to pick with you about the budget.

Bone to pick

Meaning

A grievance one wants to discuss.

Usage

Used when approaching someone to air complaints.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Image of dogs picking bones, implying lingering issues.

Used in English since at least the 18th century.