Etymology Journal · Y

You got a lot of nerve

Meaning

An indignant response to someone who has done something bold, rude, or arrogant. It implies that the person has overstepped their bounds.

Indignant, assertive

You stole my parking spot and then asked for a jump start? You got a lot of nerve.
She showed up at the party uninvited after what she did? She has a lot of nerve.
You are asking for a raise after being late all week? You got a lot of nerve.

The term nerve refers to 'gall' or 'audacity.' It has been used to describe brazen behavior since the turn of the 20th century.

Nationwide

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