noun

grief

Trouble imposed on someone that causes distress.

My coworkers give me grief whenever I arrive late.

Etymology

Grief derives from a word for burden or distress. Giving someone grief means imposing troublesome demands or treatment that causes that distress.

More examples

  • This old printer causes us nothing but grief.
  • Keep your receipt to save yourself some grief later.
  • She gets grief from her parents about her messy room.

Similar words

trouble
Broader term for difficulties, without necessarily suggesting criticism or harassment.
hassle
Emphasizes irritating inconvenience or effort rather than emotional distress.
criticism
Specifically expresses disapproval, rather than practical problems or hardship.