heartstrings

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "heartstrings" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an emotional connection or the feelings that someone has for another person. For example, "I was pulled by the heartstrings to help those in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

The Economist

Independent

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Because of this, a focus on the possible threats posed by the SNP, which pulls at English nationalist heartstrings, is far more helpful to Cameron's cause than if he had been in a position where he was debating his record on immigration a week from polling day.

The Guardian

Often, I'll find a counter melody that I hadn't noticed before, which is a very inspiring, intimidating feeling".Frankie Francis (vocalist, Frankie and the Heartstrings) PJ Harvey Let England Shake "This defines its time.

The Guardian - Music

The lesson from the 2004 primaries is that Democratic voters are so determined to recapture the White House that they will want to plump for the candidate they think can win rather than the one who plays best on their heartstrings.

The Economist

Developers shamelessly entice buyers by tugging at their heartstrings.

The Economist

He commanded huge speaking fees and lived in grand houses in Michigan and California.But his native India always tugged at Mr Prahalad's heartstrings.

The Economist

Sudden plunges in the price of coffee or cotton pluck fewer heartstrings than floods or earthquakes, but can be much more destabilising, and so make war more likely.

The Economist

This is a consummate politician who knows exactly what strings, including heartstrings, he must pull to stay in office.

The Economist

Most are not refugees; many would be horrified to be called the "wretched refuse" of anyone's teeming shore.Yet modern campaigners for comprehensive immigration reform tend to play on heartstrings.

The Economist

As the former state oil monopoly, YPF tugs at nationalist heartstrings.

The Economist

In contrast, I got my heartstrings all tangled up with the 18-year-old weightlifter Zoe Smith, which led to me spending Monday screaming: "But WHY would they ENTER her for that weight if she's not a good prospect in it?" I did this while frantically checking Twitter to see what type of cookies she ate for breakfast.

Independent

Britain's Got Talent's producers have perfected the art of pulling on our heartstrings but, in this instance, it was unnecessary.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "heartstrings" to describe situations where emotions are intentionally evoked, often to create sympathy or connection.

Common error

Avoid using "heartstrings" in highly formal or technical writing; opt for more neutral language when describing emotional impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heartstrings" functions primarily as a noun, often used in the context of emotional experiences. It describes the deepest emotions or inner feelings, referring to something that evokes pity, sympathy, or tenderness. As Ludwig AI describes, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

The Economist

12%

Independent

10%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "heartstrings" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun to describe one's deepest emotions or inner feelings. Ludwig AI confirms that it’s fully correct to use. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it often refers to scenarios where emotions are intentionally evoked, especially to garner sympathy or connection. While versatile, avoid using "heartstrings" in formal contexts to maintain a professional tone. Related phrases include "deepest emotions" and "inner feelings", providing alternative options depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deepest emotions

Focuses on the depth of feeling rather than the instrument (strings) that evokes it.

inner feelings

Highlights internal emotional states instead of external manipulation of emotions.

tender emotions

Emphasizes the gentleness of the feelings involved.

emotional core

Indicates the center or source of emotions, rather than the feeling itself.

sentimental feelings

Specifically describes feelings rooted in sentimentality or nostalgia.

emotional vulnerability

Highlights the state of being open to emotional impact.

capacity for empathy

Shifts focus to the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

depth of compassion

Stresses the level of sympathy and concern for others.

ability to be moved

Focuses on the capability of being affected by emotions.

emotional sensitivities

Highlights a heightened awareness and responsiveness to emotions.

FAQs

How can I use "heartstrings" in a sentence?

You can use "heartstrings" to describe something that evokes strong emotions, as in, "The movie tugged at my heartstrings."

What's a good alternative to "heartstrings"?

Depending on the context, you might use phrases like "deepest emotions" or "inner feelings" /s/inner+feelings.

Is it correct to say something "plucks" at your "heartstrings"?

Yes, "pluck at someone's heartstrings" is a common and accepted idiom that means to evoke feelings of pity, sympathy, or tenderness.

What does it mean when something "tugs at your heartstrings"?

When something "tugs at your heartstrings", it evokes feelings of sympathy or tenderness. It suggests a direct appeal to one's emotions.