Give the Cold Shoulder — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

To deliberately ignore or be unfriendly to someone, usually as a sign of displeasure or rejection.

When you give someone the cold shoulder, you are purposely withholding warmth and attention to signal disapproval or distance.

It is used when someone is being intentionally aloof or dismissive.

Use it when…

When someone ignores a person they are upset with by refusing to engage or make eye contact
When a colleague or friend suddenly becomes cold and distant after a disagreement
When deliberately excluding someone from conversation or interaction as a form of social punishment

Don’t confuse with...

"Silent Treatment"

—

Completely refusing to speak to someone as a form of punishment or expression of anger

"Brush Someone Off"

—

Dismissing someone quickly and carelessly, often without much thought or explanation

"Give the Cold Shoulder"

—

Deliberately being unfriendly or ignoring someone to signal disapproval

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Give the Cold Shoulder" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Office Conversations

Colleagues notice a manager giving the cold shoulder to an employee after the incident in the meeting.

Relationships & Social Life

Social Gatherings

A friend says her ex gave her the cold shoulder at the party despite them agreeing to be civil.

Media & Everyday Life

Gossip / Talking About Others

Friends gossip that the new neighbor is getting the cold shoulder from the rest of the street.

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Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Give the Cold Shoulder" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Honest Conversations

Friend

I think Sarah is giving me the cold shoulder — she hasn't replied to any of my messages.

You

Did something happen between you two? It sounds like she's upset about something.

Relationships

Expressing Feelings

Partner

You've barely spoken to me since yesterday — are you giving me the cold shoulder?

You

I'm not — I'm just processing. I'll tell you what's wrong when I'm ready.

Everyday Conversations

Talking to Colleague

Colleague

The new team lead seems to be giving you the cold shoulder in meetings.

You

I noticed — I'll try to address it directly rather than let it fester.

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Last updated:

April 20, 2026

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