What does the idiom "strike a chord" mean?

strike a chord is an idiom used by many writers. When idioms are used in the right place, they open the doors of effective communication and increase your descriptive power. In this way, you will be better understood. The meaning of the expression strike a chord is also remarkable in this respect.

Meaning of "strike a chord"

Meaning

The idiomatic phrase “strike a chord” is used when something resonates strongly with someone, either positively or negatively. This can mean that something either immediately made a strong connection, or is familiar from the past, and it often refers to a feeling or philosophy that is shared in common between two people.

Etymology

The phrase “strike a chord” has roots in both music and literature, and was likely originally used as a reference to a literal chord as something that resonates, either in music or in the human experience. The phrase was likely first used in the 1840s, when it appeared in the novel “The Ladies Magazine” by poet and playwright Elizabeth Gaskell. The phrase likely found its way into common usage in the 20th century, when it became commonly used in a figurative sense.

Usage

The phrase “strike a chord” is typically used as an expression of understanding, sympathy or empathy. For example, if a person is telling a story and the listener is able to relate to the experience being shared, they may say “that really struck a chord with me.” This is a way of conveying that the listener understands or empathizes with the shared experience. The phrase can also be used in a more negative fashion to convey that something is too familiar, or that it has an unwanted connection to the listener’s past experiences.

Example Sentences

  • The speaker’s words really struck a chord with the audience, and they all found themselves in agreement.
  • My brother was telling me about his experience with bullies at school, and it really struck a chord with me.
  • I heard the song on the radio and it really struck a chord with me, bringing back memories of my childhood.
  • The novel was really popular with readers, as its themes really struck a chord with them.

The meanings of the words in the "strike a chord" idiom

From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms

English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.

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