Is "nerve wracking" or "nerve racking" the right phrase to use?
2023-06-26
This is what goPenpal answered
Both "nerve-wracking" and "nerve-racking" can be used correctly, but they signify the same meaning: something that causes anxiety or strain. Initially, the term "nerve-racking" was used, coming from the old word "rack" which means to cause pain or torture. Over time, "nerve-wracking" has become more popular due to the association of "wrack" with ruin or destruction, fitting the metaphorical use of the phrase. So you can choose the one which visually appeals more to you. Now, isn't English fascinating in the way it evolves?
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