Grammar fix
a splitting headache
a very bad headache
A very painful, intense headache — the kind that makes it hard to think or focus.
collocationB1common
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- I've got a splitting headache — I can barely look at the screen.describing a symptom
- A: Do you fancy coming out tonight?
B: I'd love to, but I've got a splitting headache.declining plans
Fix the pattern
Pattern: [subject] + have (got) + a splitting headache
WrongI have a splitting head.
RightI've got a splitting headache.
'Splitting' goes with 'headache', not 'head' — it's a fixed pairing.
Pattern[subject] + have (got) + a splitting headache
Don't confuse it
'A splitting headache' is severe; 'a slight headache' is mild.