Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
touch-a-nerve
idiom
/tʌtʃ ə nɜrv/
Definition
To provoke a strong emotional reaction or response in someone.
Examples
- Her comments about the budget cuts really touched a nerve with the staff.
- The documentary touched a nerve about social justice issues.
- When he mentioned her past failures, it seemed to touch a nerve.
Meaning
The phrase ‘touch a nerve’ indicates that a particular subject, statement, or comment resonates deeply with someone’s feelings or experiences, often highlighting a sensitive topic.
Synonyms
- hit a nerve
- strike a chord
- resonate
