A pet peeve
/ə ˌpet ˈpiːv/informalUK · US
What does “A pet peeve” mean?
A pet peeve means a particular habit or small thing that repeatedly annoys you
People talking loudly through a film might be your pet peeve. Someone else may barely notice it, which is part of the phrase’s personal feel.
It is usually too light for serious harm or a major injustice. Those deserve a clearer description than a small personal irritation.
When do people say it?
Use it for a recurring personal irritation, often a small one. It can help explain your preferences without suggesting everyone must share them.
“People playing loud videos on the train are a pet peeve of mine.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
“Peeve” means an annoyance. “Pet” gives it the playful sense of a particular favourite, as though this were the annoyance you keep coming back to.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “A pet peeve” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-11-04