TOUCH NERVE Meaning and
Definition
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The expression "touch a nerve" refers to a situation where something is said or done that elicits a strong emotional or sensitive reaction from someone. It is an idiomatic phrase used to describe an action that deeply affects or stirs someone's emotions, often in a negative or uncomfortable way. When something "touches a nerve," it means it has struck a personal or sensitive issue for an individual, often leading to an intense emotional response.
This phrase is rooted in the idea that a nerve is a delicate part of the body that, when touched, can cause discomfort or pain. Metaphorically, it implies that sensitive topics or subjects can evoke emotional reactions that may be intense or unpleasant. The phrase is commonly used to describe situations in which someone becomes upset, irritated, or defensive as a result of a personal trigger or sore spot being addressed or activated.
"Touching a nerve" can happen in different contexts, such as during a conversation, debate, or public discussion. It can also occur when someone's actions or behavior directly challenge someone's deeply held beliefs, values, or personal experiences.
Overall, "touching a nerve" describes the act of unintentionally or deliberately hitting upon a topic or issue that dramatically affects someone's emotions and stirs strong reactions, often leading to defensiveness, anger, or discomfort.
Etymology of TOUCH NERVE
The phrase "touch a nerve" comes from a combination of literal and figurative meanings. The word "nerve" refers to the network of fibers in the body that transmit sensory information between the brain and various parts of the body. The origin of "nerve" can be traced back to the Latin word "nervus", meaning "sinew" or "tendon".
In its figurative sense, the phrase "touch a nerve" refers to a situation or topic that causes a strong emotional reaction or feeling, often evoking a sense of sensitivity or irritation. This might be because the topic directly relates to an individual's personal experiences, beliefs, or deep-seated emotions.
The use of "touch" in this phrase can be understood as making a connection or triggering a response in someone's emotional or psychological framework.
