The phrase "hacked off" is spelled with a "k" instead of a "c" due to its origin as a British slang term. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /hækt ɒf/. The "h" sound at the beginning of the word is followed by the "æ" vowel sound, pronounced as "a" in "cat." The "k" sound is represented by the letter "c" in some dialects but is more commonly spelled with a "k" in British English. The second syllable features the "ɒ" vowel sound, pronounced as "o" in "not."
Hacked off is a colloquial expression that refers to a state of being extremely annoyed, frustrated, or angered by someone or something. It can be used to describe a feeling of deep dissatisfaction or resentment towards a particular situation or individual. The term "hacked off" is often associated with a strong negative emotional response.
The phrase "hacked off" likely originates from the metaphorical image of someone aggressively chopping or hacking away at a material, such as a piece of wood or a branch, which can evoke a sense of frustration and aggression. In a figurative sense, when someone is "hacked off," they feel as if they have been figuratively chopped or attacked, leading to feelings of anger or resentment.
The term can be used to describe various situations, such as being hacked off with a colleague who consistently fails to meet expectations, being hacked off with a slow internet connection, or being hacked off with a political decision that goes against one's beliefs.
Overall, the expression "hacked off" conveys a strong sense of frustration and irritation, often accompanied by a desire for change or resolution. It encapsulates the feeling of being provoked or antagonized, resulting in an individual feeling aggravated or upset.
The phrase "hacked off" originated in the early 20th century in British English. "Hacked" is derived from "hack", which originally meant to cut or chop with rough or heavy blows. It evolved to represent a more violent cutting action, such as "hacking down a tree". Over time, "hacked" began to be used metaphorically to describe being fed up, irritated, or angry.
The addition of "off" intensifies the meaning, giving the phrase a sense of complete frustration or annoyance. It also makes it more colloquial and informal. So, when someone says they are "hacked off", they are expressing a strong feeling of being deeply irritated or annoyed with something or someone.