Pronunciation: [ɹˈʌbɪŋ sˈɒlt ɪn ɐ wˈuːnd] (IPA) 
The commonly used phrase "rubbing salt in a wound" can be pronounced as /ˈrʌ.bɪŋ sɔːlt ɪn ə wuːnd/. The word "rubbing" is spelled with two Bs and can be pronounced as /ˈrʌ.bɪŋ/. "Salt" is spelled with an "a" and "l" combination, and is pronounced as /sɔːlt/. "Wound" refers to an injury or cut, and can be pronounced as /wuːnd/. This phrase means to add insult to injury or to make a bad situation worse.
The phrase "rubbing salt in a wound" is an idiomatic expression used to depict the act of exacerbating someone's pain or distress, when instead they should be receiving sympathy or comfort. This figurative phrase originates from the literal practice of applying salt to a wound, which causes intense pain and stinging. When someone metaphorically "rubs salt in a wound," they are prolonging or intensifying an already painful situation or emotional suffering.
The idiom is commonly employed to describe situations where individuals intentionally or unintentionally make matters worse for someone who is already experiencing hardship. It suggests insensitivity, cruelty, or a lack of empathy towards another person's predicament. This expression can be used in various social contexts and relationships, such as friendships, families, or workplaces, to highlight behavior that exacerbates problems or emotional distress.
When someone "rubs salt in a wound," they may do so by repeatedly reminding a person of their failure or misfortune, emphasizing their mistakes, or even mocking their pain. The intention behind such actions may differ, ranging from seeking revenge, displaying superiority, or simply lacking awareness of the adverse impact they are having. Regardless of intent, this idiom conveys the additional harm caused by someone's actions, making a difficult situation even more painful for the victim.
