strike a nerve

USAGE SUMMARY

"strike a nerve" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to say or do something that causes a strong emotional reaction in someone. You can use it to describe a situation or action that elicits a strong response from someone. Example: The politician's remarks about immigration struck a nerve with the audience, causing many to stand up and voice their opinions.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That proposal seemed to strike a nerve among some readers.

The New York Times - Tech

The comment appeared to strike a nerve, triggering enthusiastic clapping and approving whistles.

The Guardian

You never know what about a case will strike a nerve with a jury.

The New York Times - Arts

"Nobody making it had any idea that it was going to strike a nerve the way it did," Davis concurred.

The Guardian - Film

When other teams complain about the Yankees' high payroll, it can strike a nerve with club officials.

The New York Times

This point appeared to strike a nerve with Bryan, who potentially could wrestle elsewhere at his own risk, but has instead chosen to stick with WWE.

The Washington Post

Hillary Rodham Clinton's recent accusation that a "vast right-wing conspiracy" exists to destroy her husband and his political agenda was bound to strike a nerve.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

He has struck a nerve.

The Economist

The article struck a nerve.

The New York Times

It struck a nerve.

The New York Times

This really struck a nerve.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strike a nerve" when you want to convey that something has caused a strong emotional reaction, often due to a sensitive or personal issue. For example, "The candidate's comments about healthcare struck a nerve with many voters."

Common error

While "strike a nerve" and "touch a nerve" are often used interchangeably, be mindful of slight nuances. "Strike" implies a more forceful or impactful reaction, whereas "touch" suggests a gentler or more subtle emotional response. Consider the intensity you wish to convey when choosing between the two.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strike a nerve" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase, indicating that something has caused a strong emotional reaction or has touched upon a sensitive issue. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is a usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strike a nerve" is a very common and correct idiomatic verb phrase used to describe something that elicits a strong emotional reaction. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is widely accepted and usable in written English. It is frequently found in News & Media contexts. When using this phrase, it is important to consider its implications and the potential sensitivity of the topic. While interchangeable with "touch a nerve", be aware of its slightly more forceful connotation. Also, keep in mind that it is better to use alternatives to emphasize different aspects of meaning, like "hit a sore point" or "provoke a reaction".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hit a sore point

This alternative emphasizes pain or discomfort, implying a pre-existing sensitivity.

touch a raw spot

This alternative shifts the focus to vulnerability and sensitivity, rather than a direct impact.

push someone's buttons

This alternative is informal and suggests deliberately provoking someone.

provoke a reaction

This alternative highlights the act of causing a response without specifying the emotional nature of it.

elicit a response

This alternative focuses on obtaining a response, often in a more measured or formal context.

incite anger

This alternative specifies the emotion elicited, narrowing the scope to anger or resentment.

cause offense

This alternative specifies that the reaction is one of feeling insulted or aggrieved.

spark controversy

This alternative suggests the creation of public disagreement or debate.

create tension

This alternative emphasizes the generation of unease or strain in a situation.

ruffle feathers

This alternative is more informal, suggesting a mild disturbance or annoyance.

FAQs

How can I use "strike a nerve" in a sentence?

You can use "strike a nerve" to indicate that something has caused a strong emotional reaction. For example: "The documentary about animal cruelty "struck a nerve" with viewers."

What does it mean when something "strikes a nerve"?

When something "strikes a nerve", it means it has touched upon a sensitive issue or belief, causing a strong emotional or reactive response in someone.

What can I say instead of "strike a nerve"?

You can use alternatives like "hit a sore point", "touch a raw spot", or "provoke a reaction" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "strike a nerve" or "struck a nerve"?

"Strike a nerve" is the infinitive form. "Struck a nerve" is the past tense form, used when referring to something that already happened. For example, "His comment "struck a nerve" during the debate".