Thorns

Thorns are sharp, pointed outgrowths on plants, often acting as a defense mechanism against herbivores. They are modified stems or branches, unlike spines which are modified leaves. Figuratively, 'thorns' can represent something that causes pain, difficulty, or annoyance. They symbolize obstacles, problems, or unpleasant aspects of a situation or relationship. This metaphorical usage often implies something that is irritating, frustrating, or potentially dangerous to deal with, requiring careful handling.

Thorns meaning with examples

• The rose bush, covered in sharp thorns, guarded its delicate blossoms. Gardeners must wear gloves to avoid being scratched by the prickly thorns while pruning. Even though the flowers were beautiful, the thorns made harvesting them a painful experience. The dense thicket of thorny bushes created an effective barrier, keeping the animals out. We learned to be careful, mindful of the potentially painful thorns.
• Navigating the complex legal battle was like walking through a field of thorns. Each motion towards peace was fraught with obstacles. Despite the thorns, she persevered. The constant disagreements and accusations felt like sharp thorns, making the relationship difficult. Resolving the financial issues proved a thorny problem.
• The ethical dilemma presented a moral challenge, a set of philosophical thorns. His decision was influenced by the thorny question of self-preservation. The politician's career was plagued by the thorns of public scrutiny. Dealing with the thorns was not an easy experience.
• The project faced many logistical thorns, which delayed its completion. The path to success was paved with the thorns of adversity. The thorns of debt prevented the company from expanding. He faced the thorny problem, of growing competition in the market. They had to cut through all thorns to get where they had planned to be.
• Her memories of that time were filled with the thorns of regret and resentment. The past, with all its emotional thorns, continues to haunt him. He had to come to terms with the thorny nature of her past experiences. The thorns of loss pierced his heart. Confronting the thorny nature of their history was unavoidable.