(be) spoiling for

idiom

: to have a strong desire for (something, such as a fight)

They are spoiling for an argument.

The team is spoiling for a rematch.

Examples of (be) spoiling for in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

But now the billionaire seems to be spoiling for a fight with the country clubbers. —

John Hyatt, Forbes, 22 Sep. 2024 When everyone is spoiling for a fight, the result is an unpleasant public. —

Judith Martin, The Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2024 Emma Craig was outside the Beverly Hills Medical Center on Wilshire Boulevard, spoiling for a fight. —

Sonja Sharp, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2024 But unlike Lil Nas X, skaiwater is not spoiling for a crusade. —

John Norris, Billboard, 14 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for (be) spoiling for

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“(be) spoiling for.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/%28be%29%20spoiling%20for. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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