The idiom "cut someone to the quick" means to deeply hurt or offend someone emotionally. The "quick" refers to the sensitive part of a fingernail or toenail that is located near the base and is very sensitive. When this part is cut, it can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.
In the same way, when someone is "cut to the quick," they are hurt deeply and emotionally. This can be caused by words or actions that are insensitive, cruel, or thoughtless. The person may feel hurt, angry, or upset and may have a hard time getting over the hurt.
You can use this idiom in situations where someone has been deeply hurt or offended. For example, if someone makes a hurtful comment about someone's appearance, it could "cut them to the quick." Or, if someone is betrayed by a close friend, it could also "cut them to the quick."
Overall, "cut someone to the quick" is a powerful idiom that conveys a deep emotional hurt. It is important to be mindful of our words and actions to avoid causing this kind of pain to others.
• The negative review of her artwork cut the artist to the quick, as she had put her heart and soul into it.
• I accidentally cut my sister to the quick when I told her she can't come with us to the park.
• The betrayal of her closest friend cut her to the quick, and she found it hard to trust anyone again.
• The loss of his beloved pet cut him to the quick, and he couldn't stop grieving for weeks.
• The news of the company laying off half of its employees cut her to the quick, as she had been working there for over a decade.
• His harsh words cut her to the quick and left her in tears.