start on at
B2 informal transitive
In simple words
To start telling someone off over and over, or to begin bothering them with complaints
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To begin nagging or persistently criticizing someone about something
"My mum started on at me again about tidying my bedroom."
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 notes
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.
Commonly used with
someone him her them me again
Forms
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
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Synonyms
nag go on at have a go at get on someone's case pester badger
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