strike a chord

Idioms and Phrases

Trigger a feeling or memory, as in That poem strikes a chord in all those touched by the Holocaust . This term alludes to striking the strings or keys of a musical instrument. [First half of 1800s] Also see strike the right note .

Example Sentences

“You could play that line with all the darkness and sincerity that you can muster, and it might really strike a chord in the the heart of the audience, or you could put a tiny little spin on it and get a big laugh,” he said, thinking about it for a moment.

From Los Angeles Times

A pro-Trump ad that painted Harris as a radical liberal, out of touch with the working class, seemed to strike a chord with men.

From Los Angeles Times

“America first” was another one of Trump’s slogans that really seemed to strike a chord with voters.

From BBC

"Opera and classical music as a whole seemed to hit a kind of dead end with music that was too academic and not able to strike a chord emotionally or intellectually," he told Salon.

From Salon

Jolie's sentiments strike a chord with the recent difficulties she has endured.

From Salon

Related Words

• affect
• disturb
• excite
• grab
• impress
• influence
• inspire
• mark
• move
• stir
• strike
• stroke
• upset