give someone evils idiom meaning

Idiom: Give someone evils

Definition: The phrase “give someone evils” refers to the act of giving someone a hostile or disapproving look, often characterized by a glare or a scowl. It implies that the person is expressing their displeasure, anger, or contempt towards someone else, typically without using words.

Usage: This idiom is often used in informal contexts, particularly in British English. It can describe situations where one person is visibly upset with another, often in social settings. For example, “When she walked in late, he gave her evils for interrupting the meeting.”

Etymology: The origin of the phrase is somewhat colloquial and is believed to derive from the word “evil,” which connotes malice or hostility. The use of “evils” in this context suggests a more playful or exaggerated form of expressing disapproval, rather than a literal association with malevolence.

Pronunciation: /ɡɪv ˈsʌmwʌn ˈiːvəlz/

Synonyms:

• Give someone a dirty look
• Shoot daggers at someone
• Glare at someone
• Give someone the stink eye

Antonyms:

• Smile at someone
• Greet someone warmly
• Show kindness to someone
• Be friendly towards someone

This idiom captures a non-verbal form of communication that conveys strong emotions, often in a humorous or exaggerated manner.

1. When she walked past him without saying hello, he felt like she was giving him evils.
2. I could tell she was upset with me; her glare was definitely giving me evils.
3. He always gives me evils when I beat him at chess, as if he can’t stand losing.
4. The teacher gave the student evils for talking during the lecture.
5. I tried to ignore her, but her constant giving me evils made it hard to concentrate.

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