Catch/touch somebody on the raw
phrase
To upset or hurt someone by referring to a sensitive issue or subject.
I didn't mean to catch him on the raw by mentioning his divorce.
Often appears as...
- catch on the raw
- touch on the raw
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
phrase
To upset or hurt someone by referring to a sensitive issue or subject.
I didn't mean to catch him on the raw by mentioning his divorce.
Often appears as...
- catch on the raw
- touch on the raw
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact
This phrase often reveals unintended emotions or reactions due to its deep, personal resonance with the listener.
When she mentioned his failed business, it caught him on the raw.
Pro Tip 2/3Common Triggers
Topics like personal failures, trauma, or insecurities are common triggers when using this phrase.
The boss touched her on the raw by criticizing her past errors.
Pro Tip 3/3Use With Care
Its use requires sensitivity to the listener's feelings as it might lead to discomfort or anger.
His casual remark about layoffs caught the employees on the raw.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact
This phrase often reveals unintended emotions or reactions due to its deep, personal resonance with the listener.
When she mentioned his failed business, it caught him on the raw.
Pro Tip 2/3Common Triggers
Topics like personal failures, trauma, or insecurities are common triggers when using this phrase.
The boss touched her on the raw by criticizing her past errors.
Pro Tip 3/3Use With Care
Its use requires sensitivity to the listener's feelings as it might lead to discomfort or anger.
His casual remark about layoffs caught the employees on the raw.
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Impact
This phrase often reveals unintended emotions or reactions due to its deep, personal resonance with the listener.
When she mentioned his failed business, it caught him on the raw.
Pro Tip 2/3Common Triggers
Topics like personal failures, trauma, or insecurities are common triggers when using this phrase.
The boss touched her on the raw by criticizing her past errors.
Pro Tip 3/3Use With Care
Its use requires sensitivity to the listener's feelings as it might lead to discomfort or anger.
His casual remark about layoffs caught the employees on the raw.
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