strikes a chord

USAGE SUMMARY

"strikes a chord" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that an idea or sentiment evokes a familiar feeling or emotion. For example: "His story of overcoming adversity struck a chord with me, as I had gone through a similar experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It happens when he strikes a chord.

The New York Times - Magazine

But for now it strikes a chord.

The Economist

Even if she isn't right, Daisy's attitude strikes a chord.

The New Yorker

Like it or not, his unhinged fury strikes a chord.

The New York Times

It strikes a chord with me as a researcher.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Anything that gets hurt really strikes a chord.

The New York Times

Something in this scene strikes a chord with me.

The Guardian - Sport

• Because feverish children can be particularly fidgety, the ease of use strikes a chord with parents.

The New York Times

In Mr bin Laden's own homeland, his tale of millionaire-turned-revolutionary still strikes a chord.

The Economist

There is something about soup that strikes a chord, that nourishes quietly but completely.

The New York Times - Food

I haven't read many manga series, but every so often a title strikes a chord.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using this idiom. While it's widely understood, ensure it aligns with the context and tone of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "strikes a chord" for minor agreements or weak connections. It implies a significant impact or resonance, so ensure the context warrants that level of intensity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strikes a chord" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that something evokes a feeling of recognition, agreement, or emotional connection within an individual or group. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiom "strikes a chord" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to express that something resonates deeply with an individual or group, evoking a sense of recognition, agreement, or emotional connection. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is used correctly in provided examples. It is primarily found in News & Media, but also appears in Science and Formal & Business contexts, making it suitable for neutral and professional communication. Alternatives include "resonates with" and "rings true", each offering a slightly different shade of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resonates with

Focuses on the feeling of deep agreement or emotional connection.

rings true

Implies authenticity and genuineness in the message received.

connects with

Highlights the establishment of a bond or shared understanding.

has an impact on

Emphasizes the influence or effect something has on someone.

creates a connection

Highlights the formation of a relationship or shared feeling.

finds a receptive audience

Indicates that the message is well-received and understood.

elicits a response

Focuses on the reaction or feedback generated.

touches a nerve

Indicates that the message is very sensitive and provokes a reaction.

is well received

Highlights that message is accepted.

has resonance

Focuses on the quality of evoking emotions.

FAQs

How to use "strikes a chord" in a sentence?

Use "strikes a chord" when an idea, story, or event evokes a strong emotional response or feeling of familiarity. For example, "The film's message about perseverance "resonates with" many viewers".

What can I say instead of "strikes a chord"?

You can use alternatives like ""resonates with"", "rings true", or "connects with" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "strikes a chord" or "hit a chord"?

"Strikes a chord" is the more commonly used and accepted idiom. While "hit a chord" might be understood, it's less conventional and can sound slightly awkward.

What's the difference between "strikes a chord" and "touches a nerve"?

"Strikes a chord" implies a positive or empathetic connection, while "touches a nerve" suggests a sensitive or potentially negative reaction. The former is about agreement, the latter about sensitivity.