to give a hard time
The Italian phrase 'dare del filo da torcere' literally translates to 'to give someone a thread to twist,' and it is commonly used to describe a situation where someone is causing difficulties or troubles for another person. It can refer to actions that make things more complicated or challenging, often in a somewhat irritating or bothersome manner.
I can't believe you are giving your boss a hard time.
This phrase indicates that someone is making things difficult for their boss, possibly by being uncooperative or challenging.
Children sometimes give their parents a hard time during trips.
This example describes how children can be difficult or demanding, causing stress for their parents while traveling.
The coach said that the new players are giving us a hard time in practice.
In this case, the phrase refers to the challenge posed by new players to the existing team members during practice sessions.