On this show , we take a closer look at words and expressions in the English language . We explain where they come from and how and when to use them . There are many times in life when we have disagreements or problems with other people . Maybe someone does something or says something that upsets us . But , it is best not to let these issues fester . When a cut or wound festers , it becomes infected and painful . And , “fester ” is also used to describe a problem that gets worse . If you do not care for that medical image , you can also use the verb stew . When we stew over something , we think about it so much that it becomes a big problem for us . When we stew over something , we are upset or worried about . We do not talk about the problem bothering us . We stew over it until it becomes much bigger in our own minds . If you stew over an unresolved problem , or let it fester , it can become a big issue . You might call it a bone of contention . Imagine , if you will , two dogs fighting over a bone . The “bone ” is the contentious issue that two people fight over . “Contentious ” describes something that is likely to cause people to argue or disagree . For example , the world of politics has far too many contentious issues to name . If I tried , we would be here all day ! Okay so , unresolved issues often only get worse . Talking about them can help . But how do you raise the issue ? But that is quite long . Thankfully , we do have an expression that means the same thing but has fewer words and is more interesting . Instead , you can simply say , “I have a bone to pick with you .” As with “bone of contention ,” this phrase also comes from dogs during the 16th century . This time the dogs are struggling to pick the meat off of a bone . We use this expression with our friends and family . It is a little informal but we can also use it at work . Now , let's hear two friends use these expressions : So , is Steve coming to the party tonight ? And why do you have that look on your face ? Your angry look . If you must know -- I have a bone to pick with him . What is it now ? Well , I'd rather talk to Steve about it first . Look , you can take care of your bone of contention with Steve some other time . I don't want you two yelling at each other at my party . What makes you think we're going to yell ? Because the last the last time you had a bone to pick with him , it ended in a yelling match . Well , this time it won't come to that . We'll talk in the kitchen . It'll be more private . No , not the kitchen ! Take up your issue with him in the … garage . It's more private and there are less things for you to break . Do you have something on your mind ?