The idiom "give someone the cold shoulder" means to intentionally ignore or be unfriendly towards someone, usually as a way of showing disapproval or dislike.
For example, if you invite a friend to a party but they don't show up, and then you see them the next day and they act like nothing happened, you might feel hurt and decide to give them the cold shoulder. This could mean ignoring their calls or messages, avoiding them in public, or just being distant and unresponsive when they try to talk to you.
This idiom is often used in situations where someone has done something wrong or offensive, and the other person wants to show their displeasure without directly confronting them. It can also be used as a way of expressing disinterest or indifference towards someone, especially if they are trying to get your attention or affection.
Overall, giving someone the cold shoulder is a way of communicating negative feelings without having to say anything directly. It can be a powerful tool for expressing disapproval or setting boundaries, but it can also be hurtful and damaging to relationships if used excessively or without good reason.
• The new employee was given the cold shoulder by her colleagues on her first day of work.
• My classmates gave me the cold shoulder when I didn't share my pencil with them.
• The politician was given the cold shoulder by the public after the scandal broke.
• Despite his apologies, the family gave the estranged son the cold shoulder at the reunion.
• The company gave the competitor the cold shoulder when they tried to collaborate on a project.
• After the argument, Sarah's friend gave her the cold shoulder for a week.