Meaning
To feel guilty about something.
Cultural Background
The phrase is very common in political debates to accuse opponents of being defensive. Historically, straw was everywhere, making it a perfect metaphor for common people. Used frequently in social media comments to call out trolls. Used to describe colleagues who are overly sensitive to feedback.
Context is key
Only use this when you suspect the person is hiding something.
Meaning
To feel guilty about something.
Context is key
Only use this when you suspect the person is hiding something.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct idiom.
Quando ho parlato di bugiardi, lui si è arrabbiato subito. Ha proprio la ____.
The idiom for feeling guilty/defensive is 'avere la coda di paglia'.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesQuando ho parlato di bugiardi, lui si è arrabbiato subito. Ha proprio la ____.
The idiom for feeling guilty/defensive is 'avere la coda di paglia'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, you can say 'Forse ho la coda di paglia' if you realize you are being defensive.
Related Phrases
Sentirsi in colpa
synonymTo feel guilty
Essere permaloso
similarTo be touchy
