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Discover Ludwig"touch a nerve" is a commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to say or do something that causes someone to become upset, angry, or uncomfortable. It can be used in various situations, but usually refers to a sensitive topic or a personal issue. Here are a few examples: - "When you brought up her failed marriage, it really touched a nerve and she stormed out of the room." - "The politician's comments about immigration policies touched a nerve with many citizens." - "I didn't mean to touch a nerve, I was just trying to offer some constructive criticism." - "Her story about growing up in poverty really touched a nerve with the audience, and many were moved to tears." - "Please be careful what you say, you don't want to touch a nerve and hurt anyone's feelings."
Dictionary
touch a nerve
verb
To make a remark or perform a deed which produces a strong response, especially an emotional response such as anxiety or annoyance, because it calls to mind something which has been a source of concern or embarrassment.
Exact(43)
The column appeared to touch a nerve.
Such efforts clearly touch a nerve.
Their message seemed to touch a nerve with people in Wimbledon.
These raw images touch a nerve: they are radiant, and certainly worth another look.
And yet, as awful as "John Q". is, the picture does touch a nerve.
Why does the anti-college mantra still touch a nerve among so many Americans?
Similar(17)
But they touched a nerve.
I definitely touched a nerve.
But he touched a nerve.
They had touched a nerve.
The article touched a nerve.
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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com