1 B2 idiomatic informal
To begin nagging or persistently criticizing someone about something
"My mum started on at me again about tidying my bedroom."
start on at
B2 informal transitive
To begin nagging, criticizing, or persistently complaining to someone
In plain English
To start telling someone off over and over, or to begin bothering them with complaints
What does "start on at" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To begin pressuring or badgering someone to do something
"His boss started on at him to finish the project before the weekend."
Usage tip
Primarily British English. Strongly implies persistent, repetitive nagging rather than a one-time criticism. Often used to express annoyance at being nagged. The tone is usually negative from the perspective of the person being nagged.
Words that pair with "start on at"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
someone him her them me again
How to conjugate "start on at"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
start on at
I/you/we/they
3rd person
starts on at
he/she/it
Past simple
started on at
yesterday
Past participle
started on at
have + pp
-ing form
starting on at
continuous
Hear "start on at" in the wild
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Other ways to say "start on at"
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badger get on someone's case go on at have a go at nag pester
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