Bugbear means something that annoys or worries someone a lot. It can also mean a person or thing that causes irritation or fear.
People use “bugbear” when talking about a common problem that keeps bothering them. For example, someone might say paperwork is their bugbear, meaning it is the thing they dislike most or find most annoying.
Meaning & Usage
In everyday English, a bugbear is usually a personal annoyance, frustration, or worry. It is often used in a slightly old-fashioned but still natural way.
Examples
“Rising prices are my biggest bugbear.”
“One bugbear for many drivers is finding parking.”
“Lateness is a bugbear for her.”
Is “bugbear” a negative word?
Yes. It is usually used for something unpleasant, annoying, or worrying.
Is “bugbear” common in daily English?
Yes, but it sounds a little formal or old-fashioned. People still use it in writing and speech.
Can “bugbear” mean a scary creature?
In older use, yes. But today it usually means an annoyance or worry, not a monster.
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