Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
to cut someone to the quick
idiom
/tə kʌt ˈsʌmwʌn tə ðə kwɪk/
Definition
To hurt someone deeply, especially emotionally.
Examples
- Her harsh words cut him to the quick, leaving him feeling vulnerable and exposed.
- When he made a joke about her appearance, it cut her to the quick.
- The criticism from his closest friend cut him to the quick, and he couldn’t shake off the feeling of inadequacy.
Meaning
This phrase means to cause profound emotional pain or distress to a person, often by criticizing or offending them.
Synonyms
- hurt deeply
- wound
- offend
- sting
