The phrase "sting to the quick" is used to describe a deep emotional hurt. The spelling of the word "quick" in this context has an unusual pronunciation, represented by the IPA symbol /kwɪk/. The "qu" combination is pronounced as "kw" instead of the traditional "k". The word "sting" is pronounced as /stɪŋ/ with a short "i" sound followed by the "ng" sound. Together, these words form a potent phrase describing a painful emotional wound that cuts deep.
The phrase "sting to the quick" is a figurative expression used to describe a deep emotional or psychological hurt that affects one profoundly. It refers to an experience that strikes someone at their core, leaving them feeling intensely wounded or insulted. The term has its origins in old English and can be related to a literal wound that pierces or penetrates deeply, thus eliciting a sharp and immediate response.
When something stings to the quick, it implies that the incident has touched a sensitive nerve within an individual, reaching their innermost feelings or beliefs. It often denotes a personal attack, criticism, or betrayal that leaves a lasting impact and causes significant distress. The phrase captures the intensity of the emotional pain, emphasizing the swift and severe reaction it triggers in the person affected.
Furthermore, "sting to the quick" implies that the hurt is not superficial but deeply cutting, and it may take time to recover from such an emotional blow. The phrase is commonly used to describe moments of extreme vulnerability or when people's core values or self-worth are attacked. It highlights the profound nature of the emotional response, as the pain is rooted in one's essential being, leaving a lasting imprint on their psyche.
Overall, "sting to the quick" describes a deeply penetrating hurt that strikes at the very heart of a person, leaving them reeling from the emotional impact and requiring time and healing to overcome.