add insult to injury
Meaning
To make a bad situation worse by doing or saying something that adds extra harm, annoyance, or humiliation.
Origin
Recorded from the 16th century; it echoes the ancient idea (found in Latin/Greek writings) of worsening a wound by adding a further offense—an image of compounding harm.
Notes
Usually negative and often sympathetic. Implies an extra setback or humiliation on top of an existing problem. Used in speech and writing; be cautious not to sound accusatory toward someone already struggling.
Examples
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I missed my flight, and to add insult to injury, my luggage was sent to the wrong city.
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She forgot my birthday and then called to ask for a favor, which really added insult to injury.
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The team lost in the final, and the referee’s bad call added insult to injury.
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My phone screen cracked, and to add insult to injury, it stopped charging altogether.
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He criticized my work in front of everyone, and to add insult to injury, he took credit for my idea.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: “add insult to injury.” Often used after a clause (“…, and to add insult to injury, …”). “Added insult to injury” is common in past tense; articles are fixed (no “an insult”).
Synonyms
- make matters worse
- compound the problem
- rub salt in the wound
- pour fuel on the fire
Antonyms
- make amends
- make matters better
- help
- improve the situation