(be) spoiling for

phrase

: 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

This budget-friendly set is ideal for spoiling for teens, tweens, and anti-aging enthusiasts alike. — Jennifer Chan, PEOPLE, 20 Dec. 2025

Americans certainly aren’t spoiling for a fight; in the CBS News/YouGov poll, 70% of respondents opposed military action there. — Michelle Goldberg, Mercury News, 26 Nov. 2025

Pluribus crackles with terrific comic tension as Carol wakes up next to her dead partner, filled with grief yet spoiling for a fight. — Scott Tobias, Vulture, 7 Nov. 2025

With Trump seemingly on side, Nandy knows GB News and Farage are spoiling for a fight. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 22 Sep. 2025