Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[organica]

What does it mean when you say, "this may leave your nerves raw."
Thank you very much.

Organica

[CP]

We say that our nerves are raw when we have been over-stimulated in some way. Just as our skin may get raw from constant scratching, our nerves seem to be raw from too much irritation.

Of course, the nerves don't really get raw, but it's a good analogy.

If you didn't get enough sleep last night, and you have had a very hectic day at work, and traffic was very bad, and the children are all acting up, you are in a frazzle, you are on edge and ready to snap -- your nerves are raw.
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You live a new life for every new language you speak. -Czech proverb

[organica]

Thank you very much, CP.