"Pain in the neck" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone or something that is causing inconvenience or annoyance. There are numerous synonyms for this phrase, including "annoying," "irritating," "bothersome," "troublesome," "exasperating," "provoking," "vexing," "irksome," and "tedious." These synonyms emphasize the negative impact on one's experiences, and the frustration that comes with dealing with something problematic. Other idiomatic expressions that convey similar meanings include "a thorn in one's side," "a fly in the ointment," and "a pain in the butt." Using synonyms can help to diversify language and expressions, and convey a more specific tone.