Nag

To annoy or irritate someone with persistent messages or demands, often in a repetitive or petty manner. The term can also refer to an ongoing concern or worry that occupies a person's mind, leading to a sense of unease or restlessness. In some contexts, it can describe a form of affectionate teasing or playful criticism aimed at someone close.

Nag meaning with examples

• My mother tends to nag me about my eating habits, constantly reminding me to eat more vegetables. While I understand her concern for my health, her persistent reminders can feel overwhelming. It's as if every family dinner comes with a side of guilt for not making the healthiest choices. Despite her good intentions, I often wish she would ease up a bit on the nagging.
• As a teacher, I find myself having to nag my students to complete their homework on time. Though I want to encourage independence, I also realize that without reminders, some students might forget or misplace their assignments. I try to strike a balance between guidance and autonomy, but my repeated prompts often lead to resistance and eye rolls from the class.
• My roommate loves to nag me about keeping the apartment clean. Often, she leaves little notes on the fridge about doing the dishes or organizing the living room. While I appreciate her desire for a tidy space, sometimes her constant reminders feel more like a chore than a shared responsibility. I try to contribute, but her incessant nagging can be exhausting.
• Whenever my partner and I discuss future plans, I find myself nagging him about making decisions. Whether it's about vacations, financial planning, or even dinner choices, he often hesitates. I don't mean to be annoying; I'm just eager to nail down a plan. However, I notice that my repeated questioning sometimes pushes him away instead of encouraging him to engage.