CUTTING TO THE QUICK Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "cutting to the quick" is an idiomatic expression that refers to deeply hurting or piercing someone's emotions or feelings. It is used to describe a situation or remark that profoundly impacts someone, leaving them intensely hurt or affected.
The term finds its origin in the practice of quicksilver or mercury application to a fresh wound to stop bleeding. In this context, the "quick" refers to the living flesh underneath the cut or nail bed. Hence, "cutting to the quick" allegorically signifies a situation or comment that penetrates beyond the superficial layers of someone's emotions, reaching the very core or essence of their being.
When someone is "cut to the quick," it implies that their most vulnerable feelings or sensitivities have been violated or deeply wounded. This expression underscores the sharpness or impact of an action or remark, leaving the recipient emotionally distraught or deeply affected.
Moreover, "cutting to the quick" often implies a deliberate attempt to cause harm or provoke a strong emotional response. It could be an intentional insult, an insensitive comment, or an honest but harsh critique that strikes right at the core of someone's self-esteem or beliefs. The phrase emphasizes the profound and lasting impact such a remark or situation can have on an individual's emotional well-being, creating a deep sense of pain, distress, or vulnerability.
Common Misspellings for CUTTING TO THE QUICK
- xutting to the quick
- vutting to the quick
- futting to the quick
- dutting to the quick
- cytting to the quick
- chtting to the quick
- cjtting to the quick
- citting to the quick
- c8tting to the quick
- c7tting to the quick
- curting to the quick
- cufting to the quick
- cugting to the quick
- cuyting to the quick
- cu6ting to the quick
- cu5ting to the quick
- cutring to the quick
- cutfing to the quick
- cutging to the quick
- cutying to the quick
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